This Irish Pub Burger is a hearty delight! With a juicy beef patty topped with tangy Irish cheddar and crispy bacon, it’s sure to satisfy your tastebuds. 
I love serving these burgers with a side of homemade fries—they’re the perfect match! Grab your friends, fire up the grill, and enjoy a little pub vibe at home!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is ideal because it keeps the burgers juicy and flavorful. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can work, just be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out easily.
Irish Cheddar Cheese: This cheese has a sharp taste that enhances the burger. If you can’t find it, sharp cheddar or even a pepper jack cheese can make a great substitute for an extra kick.
Bacon: Bacon adds crunch and a smoky flavor. If you’re avoiding pork, turkey bacon is a good alternative. It won’t be as crispy, but it can still provide a nice savory flavor.
Crispy Fried Onions: These add texture and a bit of sweetness. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, try using sautéed onions or even roasted shallots for a deeper flavor.
Brioche Buns: I love brioche for its slight sweetness and soft texture. If you prefer, whole wheat or ciabatta buns work well, too, just keep in mind the texture will differ.
How Can You Cook Burgers to Perfection?
Cooking burgers is all about getting that perfect sear while keeping the inside juicy. Make sure your skillet or grill is hot enough before adding the patties. This helps to lock in the juices and gives a nice crust.
- Shape the patties gently to avoid compacting the meat. A loose patty cooks better!
- Cook for 4-5 minutes on one side. Don’t press down on them; this releases juices.
- Flip and add cheese right away. Cover the skillet or grill for a minute to help the cheese melt.
- Always let the burgers rest for a couple of minutes after cooking. This helps retain the juices.
Delicious Irish Pub Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burger:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 4 slices of bacon
- 1/2 cup shredded Irish cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crispy fried onions
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
Seasonings:
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 2 brioche burger buns
- Optional: arugula or lettuce for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Irish Pub Burger will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend a few minutes getting ingredients ready, then cook up those tasty patties, and don’t forget their delicious toppings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill or Skillet:
Start by heating your grill to medium-high or place a skillet on the stove over medium-high heat. This ensures your burgers cook evenly and get that nice sear!
2. Prepare the Bacon:
In a skillet, cook the bacon slices until they are crispy and golden brown. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to drain. After it cools, chop the bacon into small, bite-sized pieces.
3. Make the Burger Patties:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together gently until it’s well blended. Shape the mixture into two equal-sized burger patties, making sure they’re slightly larger than your buns since they’ll shrink a bit while cooking.
4. Cook the Patties:
Place the patties on the grill or in your skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side, then flip the patties. Top each patty with a generous amount of shredded Irish cheddar cheese. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the cheese melts and the patties are cooked to your preference.
5. Prepare the Sauce:
While your burgers are cooking, take a small bowl and mix together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. This creamy sauce will add a delightful flavor to your burgers!
6. Assemble the Burgers:
Toast the brioche burger buns on the grill or in the skillet until they’re slightly golden. On the bottom part of each bun, spread a good amount of the creamy sauce. Place the cooked burger patty with melted cheese on top, followed by the chopped bacon pieces and crispy fried onions. Yum!
7. Garnish:
If you like, add a layer of arugula or lettuce on top for some extra crunch and freshness.
8. Serve:
Finally, place the top half of the bun on each burger. Serve your delicious Irish Pub Burger with fries or your favorite side. Enjoy every tasty bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! If you prefer ground turkey, use an 85/15 blend for a juicier burger. Just be mindful to avoid overcooking, as turkey can dry out more quickly than beef. Cook it to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
What Can I Substitute for Irish Cheddar Cheese?
If you can’t find Irish cheddar, try using sharp cheddar or even a mild Gouda for a different flavor profile. Both options will still give you that delicious cheesy melt you’re looking for!
How to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burger patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them juicy when reheating, warm them in a skillet with a splash of water, covering the pan to create steam for about 5-8 minutes.
Can I Prepare the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! The creamy mayonnaise and Dijon mustard sauce can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using it to refresh the flavors!
