Blue Cheese Burger: The Ultimate Topping Guide

Blue cheese burgers are a unique and indulgent treat for any blue cheese lover. The tang and creaminess of the blue cheese make it a perfect pairing for a beef patty, and the cheese can be mixed into the meat or stuffed inside. Many recipes recommend using ground chuck with an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio to ensure the burger stays juicy. When it comes to toppings, the options are endless, but some popular choices include bacon, lettuce, tomato, mayo, BBQ sauce, caramelized onions, and arugula. For an extra punch of flavour, you can even make a blue cheese and rosemary mayonnaise to spread on the bun.

Blue cheese and rosemary mayo

The blue cheese and rosemary mayo is a perfect sauce to go on your blue cheese burger. It's tangy, earthy, and a little sweet and savory. The ultimate balance of flavors to complement any kind of burger. The rosemary in the mayo gives it a unique twist, and the longer it sits, the more the flavor infuses, so it's even better if you make it ahead of time and keep it in the fridge.

Ingredients

• Blue cheese (strong varieties such as Gorgonzola naturale work well)
• Red wine vinegar
• Fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• Garlic powder
• Granulated sugar
• Salt
• Black pepper

Instructions

• In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, cheese, vinegar, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, sugar, and pepper.
• If not using right away, keep in an airtight container in the fridge. The rosemary flavor will become more pronounced as it sits.

How to prep your grill

To prep your grill for blue cheese burgers, there are several steps you should follow. Firstly, ensure your grill is clean by scrubbing the grill grates with a grill brush to remove any built-up residue from previous meals. Next, oil the grill by dipping a folded paper towel in oil and using grilling tongs to rub the oil onto the grates. You can also brush a little oil onto your burgers to prevent them from sticking to the grill.

It is important to get your grill hot before adding the burgers. Wait for the thermometer to reach between 350 and 375 degrees Fahrenheit, and then place your patties on the grill. For rare burgers, cook for 4 minutes; for medium-rare, 5 minutes; for medium, 6-7 minutes; and for well-done, 8-9 minutes. You can also check the temperature of your burgers with a meat thermometer – ground beef should be cooked to a minimum of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

When cooking your burgers, only flip them once, and avoid pressing down on the patties, as this will squeeze out the juices and dry out your burgers. If you are adding cheese, do so about a minute before the burgers are finished cooking.

Finally, don't forget to toast your buns! Brush the insides of your buns with oil or butter and place them on the grill until they are golden.

Best toppings for blue cheese burgers

Blue cheese burgers are a match made in heaven. The tanginess and creaminess of the blue cheese perfectly complement the beef patty, resulting in a juicy and mouthwatering burger. While blue cheese is often mixed into the patty, there are several toppings that can further enhance the flavour and texture of your burger. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Bacon

As the saying goes, "bacon makes everything better." The salty, crispy goodness of bacon pairs exceptionally well with the creaminess of blue cheese. Whether you prefer smoked maple bacon or something a little more straightforward, the addition of bacon will take your blue cheese burger to the next level.

Caramelised onions

Caramelised onions add a touch of sweetness to your burger and help balance the sharpness of the blue cheese. The contrast between the crispy bacon and the soft, sweet onions creates a delightful texture and flavour combination.

Arugula

Also known as rocket, arugula is a peppery green that adds a nice bite to your burger. Its bitterness also helps to cut through the richness of the blue cheese and bacon. A small handful of arugula provides the perfect fresh accent to the other robust flavours in the burger.

Mushrooms

Sautéed mushrooms bring an earthy flavour and a juicy texture to your burger. They complement the blue cheese beautifully and add another layer of depth to the overall taste experience. Frizzled onions, which are thinly sliced onions that are battered and deep-fried, can also be a fun and crispy addition.

BBQ sauce

A tangy and slightly sweet BBQ sauce can be a delicious addition to your blue cheese burger. It can be mixed into the meat or spread directly onto the bun. This sauce adds a touch of sweetness and a hint of spice, balancing the sharpness of the blue cheese.

Pickled red onions

If you're looking for a tangy and crunchy topping, pickled red onions are an excellent choice. They add a vibrant pop of colour to your burger and their sharp flavour pairs wonderfully with the blue cheese.

When it comes to creating the ultimate blue cheese burger, don't be afraid to experiment and combine different toppings. You can also mix blue cheese into the patty for an extra punch of flavour. Remember to use good quality meat, preferably with a higher fat content, to ensure a juicy and flavourful burger. Enjoy crafting your perfect blue cheese burger!

Blue cheese crumbles

When making a blue cheese burger, it is recommended to use ground beef with an 80/20 lean-to-fat content. This will ensure that the burger stays juicy and is not dry. For a single patty, you will need about 1/4 to 1/2 a cup of blue cheese crumbles. If you are mixing the blue cheese into the beef, simply combine the two with some seasonings and form them into patties. If you want to stuff the blue cheese into the patty, form two ultra-thin patties, add the cheese in the middle, and seal the edges.

When grilling a blue cheese burger, it is important not to press down on the patty as this will release the juices and dry out the meat. For a medium-rare burger, grill the patty for about 4 minutes on each side, and for a well-done burger, grill for about 7 minutes or more on each side.

Some suggested toppings to pair with blue cheese include bacon, caramelized onions, lettuce, tomato, BBQ sauce, and mayonnaise.

Bacon, steak sauce and sautéed shrooms

Bacon, Steak Sauce, and Sautéed Shrooms Take a Blue Cheese Burger to the Next Level

Blue cheese burgers are a treat, and adding bacon, steak sauce, and sautéed mushrooms can take them to the next level. This combination of toppings and ingredients creates a juicy, flavourful burger that's perfect for a summer barbecue or a cosy night in.

Bacon

Bacon is a classic addition to any burger, and it pairs particularly well with blue cheese. Thick, crispy, applewood-smoked bacon adds a nice contrast of textures and a smoky flavour to the burger.

Steak Sauce

Steak sauce, such as a tangy and savoury Worcestershire sauce, can be added directly to the beef mixture to enhance the flavour of the patty. You can also use other sauces like BBQ sauce or Dijon mustard to add a little extra kick.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Sautéed mushrooms, especially baby Portobello or white button mushrooms, add a juicy, earthy flavour to the burger. Cooking them in butter and olive oil with minced shallots or red onions until they're tender and translucent will create a tasty topping that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

Putting It All Together

To assemble the burger, start by spreading a layer of mayonnaise on the bottom bun. Then, add some spring mix or arugula, followed by the grilled patty. Spread a generous amount of blue cheese dressing or crumbles on top of the patty, and then add two slices of crispy bacon. Top it off with a heaping spoonful of the sautéed mushrooms and shallots, and finally, place the top bun.

Final Thoughts

This combination of toppings and ingredients will create a mouth-watering blue cheese burger that's sure to impress. Don't be afraid to experiment with different types of cheese, sauces, and seasonings to make it your own. Enjoy!

Frequently asked questions