Summer is all about sunshine, backyard BBQs, and mouthwatering burgers hot off the grill. Whether you’re hosting a weekend cookout or planning a casual weeknight dinner outdoors, burgers are a crowd-pleasing favourite that never go out of style.
In this guide, we’ll explore flavour-packed summer BBQ burger ideas using real beef, bison, and even a few bold twists on traditional favourites. Get ready to fire up the grill and serve up some unforgettable summer bites.
1. Classic Canadian Beef Burgers
Nothing beats the simplicity and satisfaction of a juicy, grilled beef burger. Start with high-quality ground chuck, ideally with a fat content of about 80/20 for maximum juiciness and flavour.
Pro Tip:
Use a light touch when forming your patties and make a small thumbprint in the centre to help them cook evenly without puffing up.
Top It Off With:
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Sharp Canadian cheddar
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Iceberg lettuce
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Sliced vine tomatoes
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Red onion
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Dill pickles
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Ketchup, mustard, and mayo on a toasted sesame seed bun
Bonus Twist:
Add a maple bacon strip for that unmistakably Canadian touch.
2. Prime Rib Burgers with Horseradish Aioli
Elevate your summer burger game with premium ground prime rib. Rich, tender, and bursting with natural flavour, prime rib burgers are ideal for special occasions — or just treating yourself.
Make it Gourmet:
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Toasted brioche buns
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Horseradish aioli
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Caramelized onions
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Arugula
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Sliced beefsteak tomatoes
Pair with grilled sweet potato wedges or a Caesar salad for a well-rounded meal.
3. Smoky BBQ Bacon Cheeseburgers
For true barbecue flavour, go all in with smoky seasoning, barbecue sauce, and crispy bacon. This burger is bold, messy, and oh-so-satisfying.
Key Ingredients:
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Seasoned ground beef (try a BBQ spice rub or smoked paprika)
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A generous layer of smoky barbecue sauce
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Aged cheddar or smoked gouda
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Crispy double-smoked bacon
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Pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick
Add a side of grilled corn or BBQ baked beans to complete the experience.
4. Ground Bison Burgers with Roasted Garlic Mayo
Looking for something leaner without sacrificing flavour? Bison is a top-notch alternative to beef, with a slightly sweeter, richer taste and lower fat content. It's also high in iron and protein, making it a nutrient-dense option for summer grilling.
Build This Burger:
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Ground Canadian bison
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Roasted garlic mayo
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Sautéed mushrooms
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Havarti or Swiss cheese
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Butter lettuce
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Toasted ciabatta bun
Bison cooks quicker than beef, so keep an eye on the grill and don’t overdo it!
5. Blue Cheese and Caramelized Onion Burgers
Looking to impress the foodies at your BBQ? Try this bold burger packed with rich flavours that go far beyond your average cheeseburger.
Ingredients:
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Ground beef or lamb
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Crumbled blue cheese
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Caramelized onions
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Baby spinach or arugula
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Fig jam or balsamic glaze
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Toasted sourdough or artisanal buns
This combo balances savoury, sweet, and tangy in every bite.
6. Breakfast-Style Burgers
Who says burgers are only for lunch or dinner? Combine your breakfast favourites into a burger that’s perfect for brunch or a casual morning get-together.
Stack It High:
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Ground beef and pork mix
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Fried egg (sunny side up)
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Hash browns or crispy bacon
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Cheddar or American cheese
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Maple syrup drizzle (optional)
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English muffin or toasted bagel bun
Pair with fresh fruit or a mimosa for a fun twist on the typical weekend brunch.
9. Tex-Mex Jalapeño Burgers
Bring the heat with a Tex-Mex inspired burger that’s perfect for those who like things spicy.
What’s Inside:
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Ground beef seasoned with cumin, chili powder, and garlic
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Pepper jack cheese
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Sliced fresh jalapeños or chipotle peppers
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Avocado or guacamole
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Corn and black bean salsa
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Toasted cornmeal-dusted bun
Serve with tortilla chips and grilled elote (Mexican street corn) on the side.
10. BBQ Burger Tips for a Successful Summer Cookout
No matter which burger you choose, here are a few universal grilling tips:
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Preheat the Grill: Always start with a hot grill to ensure a good sear and prevent sticking.
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Don’t Overwork the Meat: Form your patties gently to keep the texture tender.
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Keep It Juicy: Avoid pressing down on your burgers while cooking — it squeezes out flavourful juices.
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Rest Before Serving: Let burgers rest for 2-3 minutes after grilling to redistribute juices.
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Have Toppings Ready: Set up a topping station with cheeses, veggies, condiments, and buns to keep guests happy.
From classic beef burgers to adventurous new takes like bison or southern-fried chicken, there’s no shortage of ways to make your summer BBQ stand out. With quality ingredients, a little creativity, and the sizzle of the grill, you’ll have burgers worth bragging about all season long.
So grab your apron, gather your friends and family, and let your backyard BBQ become the burger destination of the summer. Happy grilling!
