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Classic Labor Day Burger Bar

Juicy grilled beef patties paired with a build-your-own toppings bar, perfect for feeding a crowd at your Labor Day cookout.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 8 hamburger buns, toasted
  • 8 slices cheddar cheese
  • 8 slices American cheese
  • 2 large tomatoes, sliced
  • 1 red onion, sliced into rings
  • 1 head lettuce, leaves separated
  • 1 cup dill pickle slices
  • 6 slices cooked bacon, halved
  • 1 cup sliced sautéed mushrooms
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup mustard
  • 1/4 cup barbecue sauce

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, gently combine ground beef, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Avoid overmixing to keep patties tender.
  2. Divide the beef into 8 equal portions and shape into patties slightly larger than your buns, pressing a small dimple in the center of each to prevent puffing.
  3. Preheat a grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
  4. Grill the patties for 3-4 minutes per side for medium doneness, adding cheese slices during the last minute and closing the lid to melt.
  5. Toast the buns cut-side down on the grill for 30-60 seconds until golden.
  6. Arrange all toppings, sauces, and cheeses in bowls and platters on a table or counter to create the burger bar.
  7. Let guests build their own burgers with their favorite combination of toppings and sauces.
  8. Serve immediately while patties are warm and juicy.

Notes

Keep patty portions and toppings prepped ahead of time so you can spend more time with guests. For a lighter option, offer lettuce wraps instead of buns, and consider a few veggie or turkey patties for variety.