These garlic burgers are bursting with flavor! Juicy beef patties are mixed with lots of garlic, then topped with a creamy garlic sauce that takes them to the next level.
I love making these on burger night. The sauce is so good, I sometimes consider just dipping fries in it! 🤤 Enjoy them with a side salad or your favorite chips for a perfect meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually go for 80% lean ground beef because it has great flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey or chicken can work too, just be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out quicker.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that authentic garlic flavor in both the patties and the sauce. If you don’t have fresh, you can use garlic powder in a pinch—about 1/8 tsp for each clove, but fresh is always best!
Buns: Brioche buns add a nice sweetness and softness. However, if you prefer whole wheat or gluten-free buns, feel free to swap! Just make sure they are sturdy enough to hold the juicy burger and sauce.
Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: The creamy sauce is delightful, but you can substitute Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. It gives a similar creaminess while adding a tangy flavor.
How Do I Cook the Perfect Burger Without Drying It Out?
Cooking the perfect burger can be tricky, but here are some helpful steps to keep it juicy:
- Use a high-fat content beef for more flavor and moisture—80% lean is the sweet spot.
- Avoid excessive mixing. Just combine the meat, garlic, salt, and pepper gently, then form your patties alone.
- Make an indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb. This helps them cook evenly and stay flat instead of puffing up.
- Cook on medium-high heat, and only flip once when they’re ready to avoid losing juices.
- Check doneness with a meat thermometer: 160°F for medium is a good target.
How to Make Garlic Burgers With Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (for patties)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 4 brioche or hamburger buns
- 4 slices of cheese (optional, cheddar or American)
For The Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp dried dill (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 10-15 minutes to cook, so you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in about 25-30 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
Start by making the creamy garlic sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, and dill if you’re using it. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge while you prepare the burgers. This allows the flavors to mix and develop.
2. Make the Patties:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, minced garlic (the garlic for the patties), salt, and pepper. Be gentle when mixing—just combine them until mixed. Overworking can make the burgers tough. Form the mixture into 4 equal patties, slightly larger than your buns since they’ll shrink as they cook.
3. Cook the Burgers:
Heat up your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Place your burger patties on the grill or skillet and cook them for about 4-5 minutes on one side. Flip them over and cook for another 4-5 minutes or until they reach your desired doneness (160°F for medium). If you want cheese, add a slice on top of each burger during the last minute of cooking so it melts nicely.
4. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, you can toast the buns. Lightly grill or toast the brioche or hamburger buns in a toaster or on the grill just until they are golden and slightly crisp.
5. Assemble the Burgers:
Once everything is ready, spread a nice amount of the creamy garlic sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Place your juicy burger on top, and feel free to add more sauce on top of the burger if desired. Finally, cover with the top bun.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Dig in right away while it’s fresh! These burgers are fantastic with sides like fries, a salad, or chips. Get ready to savor every bite of garlicky goodness!
FAQ for Garlic Burgers With Creamy Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative. Just be careful not to overcook it to keep your burgers juicy. You might want to add a little olive oil to the mix for added moisture.
How Can I Make These Burgers Spicier?
If you love a kick, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture. You can also use pepper jack cheese for an extra spicy touch!
Can I Prepare The Creamy Garlic Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, the sauce can be made a day in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It often tastes even better after the flavors have a chance to meld.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet or microwave. For the best texture, consider reheating in the oven or toaster oven!
