Tailgate Game Day BBQ Burger

Tailgate Game Day BBQ Burger

Find the perfect recipe for a game day BBQ burger that takes you straight to the heart of the stadium-style tailgate party experience with this copycat Tailgate Game Day BBQ Burger recipe.

Time: Prep: 10 minutes - Cook: 20 minutes - Total: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: American

Allergens

Dairy, Wheat

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs ground beef (80% lean)
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store
  • bought)
  • 6 hamburger buns
  • 1 large white onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 6 slices cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup coleslaw (store
  • bought or homemade)
  • 6 pickle slices
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with 1/4 cup BBQ sauce and mix until well incorporated. Divide into six equal portions and shape them into patties.
  2. Heat a cast iron skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add the vegetable oil and swirl to coat the surface. Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for 5 7 minutes or until they become soft and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Place the patties onto the heated skillet or griddle and cook for 4 5 minutes per side or until desired doneness is reached. During the last minute of cooking, top each patty with a slice of cheddar cheese to melt.
  4. While the patties are cooking, spread softened butter on the insides of the hamburger buns and place them cut side down on a separate skillet or griddle over medium heat for 1 2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
  5. To assemble, place each patty onto its corresponding bun, then top with caramelized onions, coleslaw, pickle slices, and a generous dollop of BBQ sauce.

Chef’s Insight

This recipe is a nod to the classic stadium-style BBQ burger while adding a twist with homemade coleslaw and a touch of BBQ sauce in every bite.

Notes

Feel free to add any additional toppings you prefer, such as bacon or jalapeños.

Cultural or Historical Background

Tailgate parties originated in the United States as pre-game celebrations before football games, where fans would gather in parking lots to socialize, enjoy food and drinks, and create an electric atmosphere full of camaraderie and excitement.