Grilled Burgers and Sides – Perfect Backyard Cookout
There’s nothing like the smoky sizzle of Grilled Burgers and Sides to kick off a backyard cookout. These juicy, perfectly charred burgers pair effortlessly with classic sides like corn on the cob, grilled veggies, and more. This meal is all about bold flavor, great company, and easy outdoor cooking.
Why You’ll Love These Grilled Burgers and Sides?
- Bold, Chargrilled Flavor: Nothing beats the taste of burgers cooked over an open flame.
- Complete Meal: With simple, fresh sides, it’s a well-rounded feast.
- Endlessly Customizable: Change up the toppings, buns, or sides to suit any taste.
- Great for Gatherings: Perfect for feeding a crowd without a lot of fuss.
- Quick & Easy: Most components grill up in under 15 minutes.
Ingredients For Grilled Burgers and Sides
This simple yet delicious meal includes juicy burgers and a variety of tasty sides, perfect for grilling season.
For the Grilled Burgers:
- 1½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend for juicy burgers)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 4 hamburger buns
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, cheese, ketchup, mustard, mayo
For the Grilled Sides:
- 4 ears of corn, husked
- 1 zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into quarters
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Step By Step Instruction To Make Grilled Burgers and Sides
Follow these simple steps to make a perfect grilled burger meal.
Step 1: Prepare the Burger Patties
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently until just combined, then shape the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties. Press a small indentation in the center of each patty to prevent puffing up during grilling.
Step 2: Prepare the Sides
Brush the corn, zucchini slices, and bell pepper quarters with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the corn on the grill, turning every 2–3 minutes until it’s charred and cooked, about 10–12 minutes.
Step 4: Grill the Burgers
Place the burger patties on the grill and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired doneness. For cheese lovers, add a slice of cheese during the last minute of cooking to melt.
Step 5: Grill the Veggies
Grill the zucchini slices and bell pepper quarters for about 3–4 minutes per side, until tender and charred. Remove from the grill and set aside.
Step 6: Assemble the Burgers
Toast the burger buns on the grill for 1–2 minutes until lightly browned. Build your burgers by placing a patty on the bottom half of each bun, and adding your favorite toppings.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the grilled burgers with the corn on the cob and grilled veggies on the side. Enjoy with your favorite condiments and sides.
PRO TIP: For extra flavor, brush the corn with butter and sprinkle with chili powder or grated Parmesan before serving.
FAQs or Tips Section
Here are some answers to common questions and a few additional tips to make your grilling experience even better.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken for the burgers?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Just be aware that leaner meats may dry out quicker, so consider adding a little olive oil or moisture to the patties.
What can I substitute for Worcestershire sauce?
You can use soy sauce or a mixture of balsamic vinegar and a dash of brown sugar as a substitute for Worcestershire sauce.
How do I keep my burgers juicy?
Avoid overworking the meat and make a small indentation in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly. Use higher-fat ground beef (like 80/20) for extra juiciness.
Can I make the patties ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the burger patties in advance, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before grilling.
How long should I grill the veggies?
The grilling time will depend on the thickness of the vegetables. Generally, 3–4 minutes per side for zucchini and 5 minutes per side for bell peppers works best.
Variations or Serving Suggestions
Feel free to customize the burgers and sides to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
- Burger Toppings: Add sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, grilled onions, or avocado for extra flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños to the burgers or serve with a spicy aioli for a heat boost.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve the burger patties in lettuce wraps instead of buns for a gluten-free, low-carb version.
- Grilled Fruit: Serve grilled pineapple or peaches alongside for a sweet, smoky contrast to the savory burgers.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out the beef burgers for plant-based patties or a homemade veggie burger made with black beans, quinoa, or chickpeas.
Nutrition + Summary
Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (burger with sides):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 600 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7 g |
| Fiber | 7 g |
| Sodium | 750 mg |
Grilled Burgers and Sides are a perfect option for a quick and flavorful cookout meal. The juicy, charred burgers paired with fresh, grilled vegetables make this a family favorite that’s easy to customize. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or simply enjoying a casual dinner, this recipe promises a crowd-pleasing experience every time.
Disclaimer: Nutritional information on this blog is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and portions. We are not nutritionists and recommend consulting a professional for specific dietary advice.