When it comes to grilling season, nothing quite compares to the taste of a juicy prime rib burger sizzling on the BBQ. Known for its tenderness, marbling, and deep beefy flavour, prime rib is a luxurious cut often reserved for special occasions. But why not elevate your next backyard gathering or weeknight dinner with delicious prime rib burgers?
In this blog post, we’ll explore how to make mouth-watering prime rib burgers from scratch, offer a few variations to suit your taste, and share some tips to help you grill like a pro. This premium burger guide has something for everyone.
What Makes Prime Rib Burgers So Special?
Prime rib burgers are made from a premium cut of beef, known for its rich flavour and buttery texture. This results in a juicier, more decadent burger that doesn’t need much seasoning or filler to taste amazing.
Benefits of Using Prime Rib for Burgers:
- Tender and juicy texture from natural marbling
- Rich, beef-forward flavour with minimal seasoning
- Less shrinkage on the grill compared to leaner cuts
- Perfect for gourmet toppings and upscale burger builds
If you're shopping at your local butcher or meat market, ask for freshly ground prime rib. Some specialty stores across Canada also carry frozen or fresh prime rib burger patties, saving you the prep work while still delivering gourmet results.
Classic Prime Rib Burger Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground prime rib
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 4 brioche buns (toasted)
- 4 slices aged white cheddar
- Lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickles (optional)
- Dijon mustard, mayo, or BBQ sauce (as desired)
Directions:
-
Form the patties
Divide the ground prime rib into 4 equal portions. Gently shape into patties about ¾ inch thick. Press a small dimple in the centre of each patty to help prevent puffing during cooking. -
Season
Sprinkle both sides of each patty with salt and pepper. Keep it simple to let the beef shine. -
Preheat the grill
Set your BBQ to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. -
Grill the burgers
Place patties on the grill and cook for 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or 5–6 minutes for medium-well. Add cheese in the last minute of cooking and cover the lid to melt. -
Toast the buns
Place brioche buns cut side down on the grill for 30–60 seconds until golden. -
Assemble your burger
Spread Dijon or your sauce of choice on the bottom bun, layer with lettuce, tomato, the burger patty, onion, and pickles. Cap it with the top bun and serve hot!
Variations on the Classic Prime Rib Burger
The beauty of a high-quality burger lies in its versatility. Here are a few mouth-watering variations to try out:
1. Maple Bacon Prime Rib Burger
Add Canadian flair with crispy maple-glazed bacon and smoked gouda. Pair with a drizzle of maple BBQ sauce for a sweet and savoury combo.
2. Mushroom & Swiss Prime Rib Burger
Sauté mushrooms in butter with a splash of Worcestershire and top your burger with Swiss cheese. A rustic, earthy option ideal for cooler weather.
3. Spicy Jalapeño Prime Rib Burger
Add pepper jack cheese, sliced jalapeños, and chipotle mayo. A great choice for spice lovers looking for a bold twist.
4. Blue Cheese & Arugula Prime Rib Burger
Crumble blue cheese over the patty and finish with a handful of arugula and a light garlic aioli. Great for upscale BBQs or wine pairings.
Prime Rib Burger Cooking Tips
Don’t Overwork the Meat
Handle the ground beef gently when forming patties. Overworking it will make your burgers dense and chewy.
Use a Meat Thermometer
Aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for well-done burgers, or 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare. Always rest your burgers for a few minutes before serving.
Avoid Pressing Down on the Patty
Pressing down on the burger while grilling causes juices to escape, leading to a drier result.
Choose the Right Bun
A soft but sturdy bun like brioche or potato holds up well to the rich, juicy patty. Toasting the bun adds texture and prevents sogginess.
What to Serve with Prime Rib Burgers
Pair your burgers with classic sides or something a little different. Here are a few crowd-pleasers:
- Poutine – A classic of fries, cheese curds, and gravy.
- Sweet potato wedges – Oven-roasted or grilled with a sprinkle of sea salt.
- Coleslaw – A tangy, crunchy contrast to the richness of the burger.
- Grilled corn on the cob – Finished with butter and a dash of smoked paprika.
For beverages, consider a hoppy IPA, a chilled craft lager, or even a red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon to complement the meaty flavour.
Can You Use Frozen Prime Rib Burgers?
Absolutely! Frozen prime rib patties are made with high-quality meat. Just make sure to:
- Thaw safely in the fridge (if not cooking from frozen)
- Grill on medium heat for even cooking
- Avoid overcooking — premium beef tastes best when slightly pink in the centre
For cottage weekends or quick weeknight meals, frozen prime rib burgers are a convenient, tasty option.
