Classic Burger Seasoning
On December 18, 2024
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A truly great backyard burger starts with the right seasoning, and my Classic Burger Seasoning is about to become your go-to on the grill.
Classic Burger Seasoning
Every incredible burger has a secret, and it usually comes down to the seasoning. This Classic Burger Seasoning combines simple Kosher salt with aromatic spices and a touch of heat to help you create perfectly seasoned, mouthwatering patties every time. With just seven common ingredients, you can take your ground beef from basic to gourmet. I’ve made countless burgers with endless seasoning blends, and this is one of my favorite ways to enhance my burger flavor without overpowering it. Whether you’re grilling for a casual weeknight dinner or hosting a backyard gathering, this seasoning mix will put you on permanent grill duty at every cookout.
Ingredients for Homemade Burger Seasoning
When I make a seasoning blend, the top priority is simplicity. This Classic Burger Seasoning is no exception. You only need a handful of ingredients, and all of them are common items you likely have in your pantry already. Here’s what’s in this mouthwatering blend, and a little about why I used each:
- Kosher salt forms the base of your blend, enhancing the natural flavors of the meat while helping create a beautiful crust on the burger’s surface.
- Black pepper adds an earthy warmth and subtle heat that pairs perfectly with your grilled beef.
- Smoked paprika brings a rich, smoky depth that amps up the flavors from your grill.
- Garlic powder creates a savory base note that adds depth without taking anything away from the meat.
- Onion powder provides a subtle sweetness and depth that complements the garlic and enhances the overall flavor.
- Chili powder brings a mild heat and that takes the blend and your burgers over the top on flavor.
- Ground mustard adds a tangy brightness that makes for a nice contrast to the richness of your beef.
How to Make Burger Seasoning at Home
This burger seasoning is not only made with simple ingredients, it’s also ready in no time. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be seasoning your burgers like a pro in no time:
- Make seasoning. Add each spice into a small bowl, then stir to combine everything. The key to great burgers is an evenly blended seasoning. Make sure everything is full incorporated, and use a fork to break up any clumps.
- Use or store. Your seasoning is ready to use immediately. Check out my post for Classic Cheeseburgers so you can see this seasoning in action, and get some burger pro tips. If you have any unused seasoning, it will keep for up to 6 months.
How to Season a Burger
Once you’ve made your burger seasoning, don’t be afraid to use it. If you’ve ever noticed that burger patties in restaurants tend to be more flavorful than homemade ones, it’s because of seasoning. Those burger chefs usually have a heavy seasoning hand, so season liberally. I recommend used 1-1 ½ teaspoons of seasoning for every patty, so this recipe does 4-6 burgers. You may find you like more or less, and that’s the great part about making your own food.
Storage and Shelf Life
If you have any leftover burger seasoning, or want to make it ahead of time so you have it on hand, you totally can. Store your burger seasoning in an airtight glass spice jar and keep it in your pantry or spice rack. It will remain maintain peak flavor for up to 6 months. After that, you’ll probably want to whip up a fresh batch.
Variations and Substitutions
This burger seasoning is my idea of classic, but that doesn’t mean you have to stick to the script. Use this as a baseline, but feel free to experiment and find a combination you and your family love. I’ve got a whole class in The Grill Squad where I walk you through making your own seasonings, rubs, and sauces if you want to become a master. For now, here a few variations and substitutions to try:
- Basic: Don’t let the name fool you, because there’s nothing basic about the essential blend. Forgo the smoked paprika, chili powder, and ground mustard, for just the salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mixing these four powerhouse ingredients in equal parts will result in a sensational burger for your guests.
- Southwest: Turn up the heat by doubling the chili powder and adding ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper to your base. This variation adds a smokiness and warmth perfect for burgers topped with some pickled jalapeños.
- Even more burger-y: My goal for this blend was to capture those essential burger flavors, including the fixings. If you want to take it a step further, add ½-1 teaspoon of dried dill weed. This addition adds a hint of pickle flavor without the need for pickles (but I’ve got a pickle recipe here if you can’t help yourself).
More Ways to Enjoy Burgers
Once you sink your teeth into your first burger you seasoned from scratch, you’ll be wanting to make all kinds of burgers. Luckily for you, I’ve got dozens of burger ideas your family will love. I put together a list of my favorite burger recipes, or you can find all these tasty creations in the Hey Grill Hey App. For now, here are some of my most popular burgers to use with your seasoning next:
Best Burger Seasoning Recipe
Season and savor your burgers with this classic seasoning, then feel free to leave the recipe a 5-star rating. Watch how I season burgers, get grilling tips, and more by subscribing to my YouTube channel.
You can also find me on Instagram and Facebook, if you want to tag @heygrillhey with any beautiful burgers you make with this classic seasoning. That way the who community can get inspired to fire up the grill and become a Backyard BBQ Hero.
Classic Burger Seasoning
Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons Kosher salt
- 1 Tablespoon fresh cracked black pepper
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon ground mustard
Instructions
- Make seasoning. Combine all the ingredients for your seasoning in a small bowl. Mix together using a whisk or fork to ensure there are no clumps.2 Tablespoons Kosher salt, 1 Tablespoon fresh cracked black pepper, 2 teaspoons smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon ground mustard
- Use or store. Use this seasoning immediately on burgers, or store for later use. Store any unused seasoning in a glass spice jar for up to 6 months for the best flavor.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
