Crafting a burger is as much of a science as it is an artform, especially if you want to surprise and delight. Here are some tips and tricks to building every bite to perfection.
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Let’s take it from the top. There’s a lot to love about a burger, but the bun can make it or break it.
And while traditional buns are the most preferred, over 75% of diners say they’d consider ordering unique breads—like sourdough rolls, potato buns or onion buns—with their burgers.1
![](https://burgercravings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/breads-1024x220.jpg)
Or give these a try:
- Ciabatta
- French bread
- Focaccia buns
- Pretzel buns (heartier buns = great for burgers loaded with sauce)
Just remember to taste-test on a complete burger to make sure it fits the flavor profile!
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When it comes to the toppings, unsurprisingly the classics are the go-tos. But no harm in getting creative! Try sliced apple or kimchi—even mac & cheese can entice a few adventurers.
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Topping tip:
Balance acidic ingredients (like anything pickled) with egg-based, rich sauces or an extra thick slice of American cheese.
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Prefer lettuce1
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Choose tomato1
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A good burger sauce is nearly essential these days. It adds a welcomed moisture and even more flavor.
Here’s a tip: consider using your other dishes’ sauces on your burger. This creates consistency on your menu, plus a unique house burger.
Or create your own burger-centric sauce. Check out these sauces to give your burger a little boom.
![](https://burgercravings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/saucy-1024x540.png)
What’s the Right Amount?
If your customers take it to go > less on the burger (or more on the side). If they eat it immediately > you can get away with more under the bun (but if the sauce is pouring out, it’s too much).
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There’s no denying we all love our American and cheddar cheeses. But let’s think beyond basic: Blue, Goat, Brie, Feta, Gorgonzola.
A unique cheese can separate you from the rest and keep your diners coming back.
Pro Tip: young cheddar will melt better than aged cheddar.
![](https://burgercravings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/icons-equation-01.png)
And of course, the patty. It’s what literally makes a burger a burger. Beyond the basic tips, keep up with what’s hot: today, diners love clean ingredients in their burgers.
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39% will pay more for burgers with minimal ingredients.2
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The TNT™ Simply Classic is a seasoned, clean label* patty with only 7 simple ingredients.
A FEW EXTRA TIPS:
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When experimenting, don’t add too much of an ingredient—go for a hint instead.
Want something sweet?
Add a dash of cocoa dust to the bun.
*Very few ingredients used | 1 Technomic, “Burger Consumer Trend Report,” 2019 | 2 Datassential Keynote Report: Burgers, 2021