summer

7 Swanky Toppings for Restaurant-Style Burgers at Home

Kelli Foster
Kelli FosterCulinary Producer at The Kitchn
I'm a recipe developer, food writer, stylist, and video producer (and The Kitchn's Dinner Therapist), with more than 10 years professional experience. Since graduating from The French Culinary Institute, I've authored 3 cookbooks: Buddha Bowls, Plant-Based Buddha Bowls, and The Probiotic Kitchen.
published Jul 3, 2014
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
Post Image
(Image credit: cobraphotogrpahy)

This summer I’m determined to step up my burger game. It’s time to branch out from my standard piece of Swiss (or sometimes cheddar), slice of tomato, onion and pickles. Not that those aren’t great toppings. They are, they’re classics. They’re just lacking in the creativity department.

Here are seven toppings that get a little more creative, a little more fancy — like a burger you’d find gracing the menu at a swanky (but still legit) burger joint.

The next time you make burgers (over the holiday weekend, perhaps?), up your game with any of these mouthwatering topping combos!

1. Tomato Jam

If tomatoes are one of your burger staples, skip the sliced beefsteaks and spread on a layer of tomato jam, instead.

Try this: Burger + oven roasted roasted tomato jam

2. Fried Egg

Put an egg on it! Because, really, is there anything you can’t put an egg on?!

Try this: Burger + fried egg, crispy bacon, frisee and aioli

3. Caramelized Onions

Deep brown, rich caramelized onions are savory, yet slightly sweet and completely luxurious. A spoonful or two will transform your burger into something truly magical.

Try this: Burger + caramelized onions, goat cheese and sauteed mushroooms

4. BBQ Sauce

Make a burger where the sauce is the star of the show!

Try this: Burger + bbq sauce, gouda, grilled pineapple and red onion

5. Blue Cheese

The stinkier, the better! Use it as a topping or stuff the inside of your burger with blue cheese before throwing it on the grill.

Try this: Burger + blue cheese, arugula and mushrooms

6. Kimchi

If you’re up something adventurous, this is for you!

Try this: Burger + kimchi and spicy mayo

7. Pesto

Pesto, especially my favorite basil variety, is a summer staple. If you haven’t ever added it to your burger, now is the time.

Try this: Burger + basil pesto, fresh mozzarella and sundried tomatoes

What are your favorite burger toppings?