The better burger trend continues and expands with new protein and flavor options, with twists on bun/bread and condiment choices. Discover how to make the classic burger exciting and new.

Arby’s surprising announcement that it is testing a venison burger(!) in a small number of locations is proof that there’s still plenty of mileage left in the old better burger trend. Built from a steak sourced from farm-raised deer and topped with frizzled onions and a sweet-tart berry sauce reminiscent of the Cumberland sauce that’s traditionally served with game, the new specialty—whether it’s widely accepted by mainstream consumers or not—also suggests the many ways in which foodservice operators can build their own signature burger specialties.

Did You Know? Three out of four consumers enjoy a burger. It’s all in pursuit of a sum that’s greater than its assorted parts.

The Carrier

Many burgermeisters insist that the bun or bread is crucial to a great burger—in fact, almost as important as the patty itself.

And there’s plenty of room for improvement beyond the generic hamburger roll:

• Housemade bun
• Sliced sturdy bread, including rye and multigrain, whether plain or toasted
• English muffin
• Ciabatta
• Brioche
• Flavored or specialty-grain roll (such as jalapeño or spelt)
• Gluten-free breadstuff
• Lettuce (for a carb-free alternative)
• For sliders, “mini” carriers such as biscuits
• Pretzel roll
• Waffles

The Patty

In addition to size (standard versus slider), there are numerous ways in which variety can be introduced to a burger menu with various proteins and other ingredients. Many customers, in fact, are seeking alternative burgers.

• Premium beef (Angus, custom blend, grass-fed)
• Turkey
• Chicken
• Pork
• Lamb
• Bison or buffalo
• Seafood (including tuna, salmon, and shrimp or scallops)
• Meatless (bean- and/or grain-based), for vegetarians and vegans
• Portabello mushroom cap
• The Blend (meat blended with mushrooms)

Additional Proteins

Many burger builders pride themselves on over-the-top combinations that pair a patty with even more protein—cheese and bacon being obvious choices, but there’s so much more to it:

• Specialty cheeses (such as Asiago or Gorgonzola)
• Premium bacon (applewood smoked, locally sourced)
• Pork belly
• A fried egg
• Other cured meats (ham, prosciutto, pepperoni)
• Sliced roast beef, brisket, or smoked turkey
• Pulled pork or chicken
• Chili

Signature Toppings

This flexible category of burger additions is where signatures are born, creating one-of-a-kind uniqueness by adding an item that’s crave-worthy on its own to a burger build.

• Cheese spread (pimento cheese, Boursin, cream cheese)
• Kimchi
• Onion rings or frizzled onions
• Traditional or upgraded slaw (such as broccoli or Asian)
• Potato chips or fries right on the burger, rather than on the side
• Refried beans
• Olives
• Specialty pickles (bread-and-butter, quick-pickled red onions)
• Macaroni and cheese

Vegetable Love

Lettuce and tomato are standard accessories to a burger, providing both flavor and texture, but growing interest in vegetables provides a good excuse for exploring other options.

• Sautéed mushrooms
• Sliced avocado or guacamole
• Sliced cucumber
• Caramelized onions or grilled scallions
• Lettuce-and-tomato alternatives (arugula, spinach, shredded Romaine, sundried tomato, fried green tomatoes)
• Sliced pineapple
• Fresh herbs (cilantro, chives, basil)
• Sprouts

Condiments and Sauces

• Spicy (habanero relish, Sriracha, chipotles en adobo)
• Global (harissa, Korean gochujang, hoisin)
• Artisanal (housemade ketchup, beer-infused mustard, roasted-garlic mayo)
• Sophisticated (aioli, pesto)
• Barbecue sauce
• Sweet chile garlic sauce
• Savory jam
• Tzatziki
• Hummus
• Green Goddess or Ranch dressing

Content courtesy of Nestle Professional