This hearty Irish Pub Burger is packed with juicy goodness and topped with melted cheese, bacon, and a tasty special sauce. It’s an easy meal that feels like a gourmet treat!
I love serving these burgers with crispy fries on the side—it’s a match made in heaven. Plus, they always impress my family and friends! Trust me, you’ll want to make these again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend of ground beef is ideal for juicy burgers. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you could use 90/10, but keep in mind it may be less juicy.
Bacon: Cooked, chopped bacon adds great flavor. If you’re after a lighter version, try turkey bacon or even omit it and use smoked paprika for a different taste.
Irish Cheddar Cheese: This cheese adds a rich, sharp flavor. If it’s hard to find, substitute with any sharp cheddar or aged gouda to still achieve a delicious taste.
Scallions: These add a lovely fresh crunch. Green onions are the go-to, but you can use chopped chives for a milder onion flavor or even leeks if you prefer something a bit sweeter.
Buns: Brioche and pretzel buns are my favorites for their buttery texture. If these aren’t available, regular hamburger buns will work, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
How Can I Cook the Perfect Burger Patty?
Cooking the burgers just right can be tricky, but following a few tips can get you there! Start by mixing your ingredients gently to avoid overworking the meat, which helps keep the burger juicy.
- Form patties slightly larger than the buns to account for shrinkage.
- Cook on medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side; avoid pressing down on the patties to retain the juices.
- Use a meat thermometer for accuracy—160°F for a medium burger is key.
- Top with crispy onions in the last minute to warm them up and add crunch!
How to Make a Delicious Irish Pub Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juiciness)
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1/2 cup Irish cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns (preferably brioche or pretzel buns)
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup crispy fried onions
- 1/2 cup creamy ranch dressing or Irish whiskey sauce (for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 15 minutes for cooking, totaling around 30 minutes. You’ll have delicious burgers ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Burger Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped bacon, shredded Irish cheddar cheese, chopped scallions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix everything together gently. Avoid overmixing to keep the burgers tender!
2. Shape the Patties:
Divide the mixture into four equal portions. Use your hands to form each portion into a patty that is slightly larger than the buns. They will shrink a bit while cooking, so this ensures a perfect fit!
3. Cook the Burgers:
Preheat a grill or skillet on medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, place the patties on and cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side. Flip the patties over and cook for another 4-5 minutes, or until they reach your preferred doneness (for medium, aim for an internal temperature of about 160°F).
4. Add Crispy Fried Onions:
In the last minute of cooking, place the crispy fried onions on top of each patty. This will warm them slightly, keeping that delicious crunch!
5. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster until they’re golden brown. Toasting adds a nice texture and keeps the buns from getting soggy!
6. Assemble Your Burgers:
To build your burger, take the bottom bun and place a cooked patty on it. Drizzle with your choice of creamy ranch dressing or Irish whiskey sauce. If you’d like, add even more crispy fried onions on top!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Place the top bun on the assembled burger and serve it up immediately! Pair it with your favorite sides, like fries or a fresh salad, and enjoy your homemade Irish Pub Burger!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef! Just be aware that turkey is leaner, so you may want to add a little olive oil or extra cheese to maintain juiciness. Also, be sure to season well, as turkey can be milder in flavor.
How Can I Make the Burgers Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the burger patties in advance! Form them and place them on a parchment-lined tray, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. If you need to store them longer, freeze the patties in a single layer and transfer to a freezer bag once solid. Just allow them to thaw in the fridge before cooking.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on a skillet over low heat, flipping once to ensure even heating.
Can I Add Other Toppings to My Irish Pub Burger?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Some great options include sautéed mushrooms, spinach, pickles, or even a fried egg. Just be sure not to overload the burger, so it stays manageable to eat!
