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How to Make a Classic Burger

Achieve burger perfection every time with our time-tested recipe and grilling tips

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1 /5 Annabelle Breakey

New Mexico Green Chile and Frito Burgers

Chiles spice up these burgers three ways: grilled and placed atop the patty, in the pepper jack cheese, and in the chipotle mayo. If you have access to fresh Hatch chiles from New Mexico, which are meaty and full-flavored, by all means use them, but feel free to substitute readily available Anaheims or use canned chiles.

2 /5 Annabelle Breakey

Northwest Crabcake Burgers

Seafood bounty meets the Northwest’s growing artisanal pickle trend and a fresh herb salad in these burgers. You can find ready-made crabcakes at the deli section in most grocery stores and sometimes in the freezer case, or make your own. Salmon cakes also work well here.

3 /5 Annabelle Breakey

Hawaiian Pig-Out Burgers

Grilled sweet and salty Spam and pineapple and Maui onion make these pork burgers a standout. If you can’t find Hawaiian sandwich rolls, cut thick slices of Hawaiian sweet bread from a loaf. Serve with classic macaroni salad and any drink with an umbrella.

4 /5 Annabelle Breakey

Korean Kimchi Burgers

Follow the recipe to make your own kimchi, or take a shortcut and use the condiment ready-made from the store. Pair the burgers with a beer with balanced malt and hops like Saigon Export.

5 /5 Annabelle Breakey

Italian Burgers

These burgers get a distinctive tang from giardiniera, an Italian mix of pickled vegetables. If you can’t find it at the store, chop up olives and pickles instead.

Now that you’ve nailed a classic burger, check out these recipes for some over the top burger inspiration.

Specialty Burger Recipes