Summer is peak burger season. Backyard grills are fired up, cookouts are in full swing, and burgers are often the centerpiece of it all. But even with all that enthusiasm, most burgers still end up looking and tasting the same. Lettuce, tomato, ketchup, maybe a slice of cheese if you’re lucky. It’s the standard lineup, and it’s predictable, safe, and, frankly, a little underwhelming. There’s nothing wrong with the classics, but there are so many simple ways to take your burger from basic to bold, balanced and bursting with flavor.
A few smart toppings can do all the work for you. Whether you’re working with beef, chicken, pork or plant-based patties, these toppings add real flavor, texture and contrast. They’re easy to prep, easy to add and can completely change the way a burger tastes. With these toppings, burger night will be worth getting excited about again.
Pesto
Pesto can go beyond pasta in its uses. It’s perfect for bringing something fresh and unexpected to a burger. Made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, and olive oil, it adds richness without being too heavy. The herbal notes cut through the fattiness of meat and cheese, making each bite taste brighter. It’s especially good on chicken burgers, but it also holds up against beef when paired with mozzarella or tomato. A thin layer is all you need to change the whole flavor profile of the burger without overpowering it.
Chutney
Chutney adds a mix of sweet, tangy and sometimes spicy flavors that give burgers more personality. Whether it’s mango, tomato, or onion-based, chutney brings in acidity and complexity that condiments like ketchup fall short on. It works particularly well with turkey or veggie burgers, where it can punch up flavor without relying on fat. Spread it on the bun or spoon it over the patty for a layer of flavor that makes each bite more interesting.
Onion rings
Swapping out more traditionally used raw or sautéed onions for onion rings gives your burger a completely different texture and flavor. The crispy coating adds crunch, while the soft, sweet onion inside adds that relied upon flavor. They’re especially good on a classic beef burger, but they also work with pulled pork or barbecue-style sandwiches. Onion rings give you the satisfaction of something fried without needing extra sauces or complicated toppings.
Chili
If we do it to hot dogs, why not try it on a burger? Topping a burger with chili turns it into a full-blown comfort food meal. The meatiness of the chili adds weight and richness, while the spices give it heat and depth. It’s a great way to stretch leftovers and can be paired with shredded cheese, chopped onions, or sour cream for even more layers of flavor. Just be ready with a fork and napkin because this is not a neat burger you can tackle with just your hands.
Hoisin sauce
Hoisin sauce has a thick, slightly sticky consistency and a deep umami flavor with hints of sweetness. It’s often used in stir-fries and marinades, but it holds its own as a burger topping too. Just a thin swipe across the bun or the patty adds a bold, savory note that complements beef, pork, or chicken. Pair it with sliced cucumber or shredded cabbage for a fresh crunch that balances the richness of the sauce.
Zucchini pickles
Zucchini pickles are a fresh take on the classic dill pickle. They offer a similar tang but with a slightly sweeter, less aggressive bite. This makes them perfect for burgers that already have strong elements, like sharp cheese or smoky sauces. The texture is firm but tender, adding just enough crunch to contrast a juicy patty. They’re also a good way to use up extra summer zucchini without wasting it.
Whiskey bacon jam
Whiskey bacon jam is one of those toppings that makes a burger feel like something from a restaurant. It’s sweet, smoky, and salty all at once, with a rich depth from slow-cooked onions and a hint of booze from the whiskey. It works especially well with strong cheeses like blue or aged cheddar, but it’s also great on its own.
Apple slaw
Apple slaw brings brightness, crunch, and a bit of sweetness that cuts through the heaviness of a burger. It’s usually made with shredded apples, cabbage, and a vinegar-based dressing, which keeps it from feeling too creamy. Use it on pork burgers, turkey patties, or anything with barbecue sauce to add contrast and balance. It also holds up well over time, so it doesn’t go soggy before your first bite.
Pineapple
Grilled pineapple adds juiciness and a caramelized sweetness that pairs surprisingly well with savory burgers. It’s a perfect match for teriyaki or barbecue-style patties and adds enough acidity to cut through rich meats like beef or pork. The charred edges bring a smoky element that keeps the fruit from feeling out of place on a burger. A single slice can completely change the tone of the burger in a good way.
Jalapeño poppers
Jalapeño poppers add heat, creaminess, and crunch all in one bite. They’re usually filled with cheese and fried, which gives your burger an instant upgrade in both flavor and texture. Use them whole or sliced in half, and layer them right on top of a beef or chicken patty. They’re particularly good with a drizzle of ranch or a slice of cheddar to play up the contrast.
Pickled red onions
Pickled red onions are one of the easiest ways to add tang and brightness to a burger. They’re thin, slightly sweet, and full of flavor without being overwhelming. Unlike raw onions, they don’t overpower everything else on the bun. They cut through richness and work with almost any type of patty, from beef to lamb to veggie. A handful adds color, acidity, and the perfect flavor contrast to each bite.
Fried egg
A fried egg makes a burger feel more indulgent and satisfying. When the yolk breaks, it adds a creamy sauce-like layer that seeps into the meat and bun. It’s especially good with bacon, avocado, or cheddar cheese. Use it on a beef burger for a brunch-style twist, or on a turkey patty to add more richness and moisture.
Spinach dip
Spinach dip might not be a traditional burger topping, but it’s a good one. The creamy, garlicky spread adds richness and flavor without needing extra sauces or cheese because it serves as both. It pairs well with veggie or turkey burgers and turns a plain beef patty into something more decadent. It’s a smart way to use up leftovers from a party and adds a new layer of flavor without a lot of work.
Cowboy candy
Cowboy candy is made by simmering jalapeño slices in sugar and vinegar until they’re sweet, spicy, and slightly sticky. It’s not subtle, but it adds a punch of flavor that works especially well on barbecue burgers. The sweet heat balances out smoky sauces and sharp cheeses, giving you that hot-sweet combo that keeps things interesting. Use it sparingly unless you like serious spice.
Buffalo mayo
Buffalo mayo is exactly what it sounds like: Buffalo wing sauce blended with mayonnaise. It adds heat, tang, and creaminess all in one swipe. It’s perfect for chicken burgers or anything with blue cheese, and it holds its own against bold toppings like celery or crispy onions. It’s also a good way to add flavor without relying on ketchup or mustard.
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