All About the Toppings

There's nothing wrong with the old standards – ketchup, mustard, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, onions and onions. But if you're looking to kick your backyard cookout up a notch, try some of these ideas for raising your burger-topping game.

BEYOND CHEDDAR CHEESE
Sure, cheddar is great, but why stop there? Try these upgrades:

✔ Brie & Fig Jam – Creamy brie melts beautifully, while fig jam adds a touch of sweetness.

✔ Blue Cheese & Caramelized Onions – A bold, tangy contrast to a rich, juicy patty.

✔ Gruyère & Dijon Mustard – A French-inspired combo with nutty, melty goodness.

 

BACON, BUT BETTER
Bacon is already a winner, but these variations take it to the next level:

✔ Candied Bacon – Brown sugar and a hint of cayenne make for an sweet-savory crunch.

✔ Pancetta Crisp – An Italian twist on crispy bacon, perfect with arugula and truffle aioli.

✔ Bacon Jam – Slow-cooked bacon with maple syrup, onions, and balsamic for a rich, spreadable topping.

 

UNEXPECTED GREENS
Lettuce? Too basic. Swap it for:

✔ Arugula – Peppery and fresh, perfect with a balsamic glaze.

✔ Fried Basil Leaves – Crispy, fragrant, and a unique alternative to standard greens.

✔ Kimchi Slaw – A spicy, fermented crunch that adds a bold umami punch.

EGGS UP
A perfectly runny fried egg on a burger is pure magic, but why not get fancier?

✔ Truffle Deviled Egg Spread – A luxurious, creamy topping with earthy truffle flavor.

✔ Soft Scrambled Eggs & Caviar – Decadent and rich, ideal for a high-end experience.

✔ Pickled Quail Egg Slices – A tangy, briny kick that surprises the palate.

 

NEXT-LEVEL SAUCES

✔ Black Garlic Aioli – Deep, umami-rich, and pairs well with anything.

✔ Miso Honey Butter – Salty, sweet, and melts perfectly over a hot burger.

✔ Gochujang Mayo – A little spicy, a little smoky, and insanely good.