When it comes to building the perfect summer burger, most cooks obsess over the meat (fat content and patty thickness), the cheese, or the grilling method. But what if the real secret to the perfect backyard burger has been hiding in your pantry this whole time? Enter: peanut butter.
Yes, peanut butter. On a burger. It may sound strange at first, but food nerds and flavor pros swear by it. And once you try it, you may never go back. Let’s break down why this idea is brilliant and how to do it right.
Related: The 8 Best Natural Peanut ButtersRanked
Why Peanut Butter Works on a Burger
Peanut butter brings that crave-worthy sweet-salty-savory-umami combo that instantly makes a burger taste better. Peanut butter is a little rich, a little sweet and deeply nutty, which are all qualities that play well with savory grilled beef.
Think about it: peanut butter is no stranger to savory combos. It pairs with chicken and beef in dishes like Thai satays and is delicious with cold sesame noodles. And who can forget Elvis’ famous peanut butter, banana and bacon sandwich?
On a burger, peanut butter adds creaminess (no mayo needed!) and a touch of sweetness to balance savory toppings, like salty bacon or spicy jalapeños, plus a depth of flavor that elevates plain patties.
Related: How to Make a Burger That Tastes Like it Came From a Restaurant
?? SIGN UP to get delicious recipes, handy kitchen hacks & more in our daily Pop Kitchen newsletter. ??
As with most recipes, you need to choose your ingredients wisely.
Go with smooth, natural peanut butter—ideally unsweetened. Crunchy varieties can compete with your toppings (unless you like going full chaos mode) and peanut butters with added sugar can skew a bit too sweet. You want the peanut butter to melt slightly into the bun and complement the meat, not overpower it.
Related: The Chef-Approved Way to Make Tender, Juicy, Never-Ever Dry Turkey Burgers
How to Add Peanut Butter to Burgers
Ready to give it a try? Spread a thin layer of peanut butter on the bottom bun—or the top one, too. (If the bun is toasted, even better; the PB will kind of melt into the warm bun.)
Next, add a perfectly grilled burger. This is definitely a time to pay attention and not overcook the meat. Peanut butter can be dry (remember it sticking to the roof of your mouth as a kid), so the burger needs to be juicy. If you like cheese, add it to the patty too. You can’t go wrong with a nice sharp Cheddar or a slice of Pepper Jack.
Pile on salty, bold toppings like bacon, pickles, sautéed onion, pickled jalapeños and/or a drizzle of sriracha, if you like things a little spicy. Add the top bun and serve with plenty of napkins.
Related: The Oklahoma Way to Make a Burger 10x Better
What If You’re Allergic to Peanuts?
If you can’t eat peanuts, reach for the sunflower seed butter. It will melt into the warm bun and burger just like peanut butter does. The flavor is slightly earthier, so it may add even more depth. And the same rules apply: Go for the natural, smooth, unsweetened kind.
So yeah, peanut butter on a burger sounds weird—until you try it. Then it’s weirdly right. Creamy, flavorful, a little rebellious and guaranteed to get your guests talking. Try it at your next cookout. Your taste buds will thank you.
Related: How to Make the Best-Ever Smash Burger, According to the Smash Burger King of New Jersey
Read More Details
Finally We wish PressBee provided you with enough information of ( The Secret Ingredient for The Best-Ever Burger )
Also on site :
- With Property Seized and Federal Funding Uncertain, Montana Asbestos Clinic Fights for Its Life
- Expert tips on how to save money when you have children
- Gabby Logan says she ‘cried into her sofa’ after Strictly Come Dancing