the best burger rub;

It’s summer time and you know what that means–it’s a time to get to grillin! And sure you could grill up a plain hamburger. But why do that when you have the best burger rub? What’s your favorite thing to grill? Mine is always hamburgers. Don’t get me wrong, hot dogs and sausages are delish too. Or some roasted corn yummm. I love having variety. Hopefully this summer we’ll get to grill some more with neighbors and friends. It’s sad to grill for two because you don’t get nearly the variety that I want at a cookout.

This burger rub might be pretty much powder, but it packs so much good taste. There’s a reason I call it the best burger rub! It’s got that perfect smoky heat without overpowering the beautiful, juicy meat. I always make a big batch and then store it in a jar for later use—because I know I’ll be using it in the future. Plus it makes it so much easier to just grab from the pantry for a quick and easy weeknight meal. Take your burgers from drab to fab with just a little sprinkle!

Suddenly find yourself with last minute guests? Grab some ground beef and the best burger rub and you’re on your way to delicious hospitality. Find some extra hungry kids in your backyard you suddenly have to feed? Well, make something they’ll all love. Plus you’ll love it too because it’s so easy.

The secret to delicious burgers (aside from the best burger rub) is the right proportion of fat in your meat. While lower fat ground beef is considered healthier, you need a little fat in your burger meat to make it delicious. I find 90% and higher too dry, so my go to is 85%. I find that it has the right amount of savory juices without being overly fatty. The umami flavors of the burger pair perfectly with the best burger rub for a perfect flavor packed burger.

Next up, the buns. Now use whatever you like of course. Whole wheat is a healthful option, although a classic white bun is also delicious. But my all time favorite for burgers is–a potato bun. It has that perfect squish factor that gives you grip on your burger and an earthy taste you just don’t quite get from other buns in my opinion.

And lastly, the toppings! Cheese is always a must for me, but I like to change it up depending on how I’m feeling. Some sharp cheddar when I’m feeling sassy, or some pepper Jack when I’m feeling spicy. Or classic American cheese (there’s very few things I find American cheese acceptable for, but burgers is one of them.)

And then I like to load up a burger with the best burger rub with lots of veggies where I can. For me that’s lettuce and tomato, maybe a thin slice of onion, and bread and butter pickles. That way I’ve added some easy veggies to my meal AND added some extra texture to the burger. Adding the extra toppings for me is what makes it feel like a gourmet burger, right at home. Of course you can get creative too—try a take on bacon barbecue or an avocado ranch for some fun tweaks.

And of course don’t forget your sauce! I’m a ketchup girl myself, though I admit that adding some mayonnaise is a guilty pleasure. It has to be just a little smear though, no one needs a burger drowning in mayonnaise. I find that with the perfect combination of toppings and sauces, it just enhances the best burger rub even further. It makes a patty in your mouth!

secrets to success;

• Pick the right fat content for your ground beef! I find 85% the right ratio where it’s not overly fatty, but has enough juicy flavor to stand up to the best burger rub.
• Make a big ‘ol batch of this burger rub–you’re going to want it again and again this summer!
• This burger rub also handy for other dishes. Try it on shrimp or salmon for a smoky sharp flavor added to any dish!

Grillin? Try these other recipes you’ll love:

• Need to contribute a dessert to your grillin? Try these two-ingredient lemon cake bars, it doesn’t get easier than that!
• Apple pie tacos are a fun treat for the whole family. A little sweet apple filling, then add all your favorite toppings.
• You can have a fourth of july party right in your mouth with these firecracker cookie bars.