This Irish Pub Burger is juicy and packed with flavor, featuring a tasty beef patty topped with melty cheese and crispy bacon. It’s the perfect meal for a cozy night in!
You can’t go wrong with a burger like this. I love piling on all my favorite toppings, and sometimes I even add a little beer to the mix for fun! 🍻
Making these burgers is a breeze, and they cook up quickly on the grill or stovetop. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this hearty treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 90/10 can work, but it might be drier. For a non-beef option, try ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative.
Irish Stout Beer: Guinness is the classic choice, adding depth and richness. If you don’t have stout, a dark lager or even a non-alcoholic stout can shine through. Just make sure it’s something you enjoy drinking!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar brings a nice tang. If you prefer something milder, go for mild cheddar or even a creamy Irish cheese like Dubliner. You can also try pepper jack for a bit of spice!
Bacon: Crumbled cooked bacon adds a crunchy texture. You could use turkey bacon or crispy pancetta for a different twist. If you’re vegetarian, skip the bacon or use a vegan bacon substitute.
Brioche Buns: These are soft and slightly sweet, perfect for this burger. If you want something healthier, whole wheat or gluten-free buns can be a great alternative. Just make sure they’re sturdy enough to hold your burger!
How Do You Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions takes patience but the sweet, rich flavor is worth it. Start by using medium heat. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt to help draw moisture out.
- Cook slowly, stirring occasionally for 10-15 minutes until golden brown. Don’t rush this—low and slow is key!
Feel free to add a splash of water if they stick to the pan. This technique transforms the onions, making them a delicious topping for your burger.
How to Make a Delicious Irish Pub Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burger:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1/2 cup Irish stout beer (like Guinness)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled cooked bacon (plus extra for topping)
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 brioche burger buns
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives (for garnish)
- Optional: lettuce and tomato for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend some time mixing the ingredients and cooking the patties and onions, but it’s all straightforward and super rewarding!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Irish stout beer, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Gently mix everything together, being careful not to overwork the meat. Just combine until it’s all mixed!
2. Form the Patties:
Divide the beef mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties. Make the patties slightly larger than your buns, because they’ll shrink a little while cooking. Press a small indentation in the center of each patty; this helps them cook evenly without puffing up.
3. Caramelize the Onions:
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook them for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are nice and caramelized. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.
4. Cook the Burger Patties:
In the same skillet or on your grill, cook the burger patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side for that perfect medium doneness. If you want them cooked differently, adjust the time to your liking! For an extra delicious touch, add some more bacon on top during the last minute of cooking to warm it up and throw on some cheese to melt.
5. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, toast your brioche buns in the skillet or on the grill until they are golden brown and lovely. Yum!
6. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream and Dijon mustard. This will be your creamy sauce for the burgers.
7. Assemble Your Burgers:
Time to put everything together! Place a patty on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Top it with the caramelized onions and a generous dollop of your creamy sauce. If you like, add some lettuce and tomato before finishing with the top half of the bun.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious Irish pub burgers right away with some fries or your favorite side dish. Enjoy every juicy bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a healthier alternative, but keep in mind it can be a bit drier than beef. To ensure moisture, you might want to add a splash more stout beer or some extra melted cheese into the mixture to maintain that juicy texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. If you have leftover toppings, store those separately to keep them fresh.
Can I Make the Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead! Form them and place them on a parchment-lined tray. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. If needed, they can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure to separate each patty with parchment paper to prevent sticking!
What’s a Good Side Dish for Irish Pub Burgers?
These burgers pair wonderfully with classic pub-style sides like crispy fries, onion rings, or a simple green salad. For a fun twist, you could also serve them with colcannon or even a hearty bowl of Irish stew!
