What’s the best burger seasoning? We savored a lot of flavors to find the best seasoning for a burger that can turn your burger from bland to breathtaking.
Burgers are pretty easy, right? All you have to do is throw some meat on a grill, slap whatever’s fairly edible onto a bun, then slather everything with ketchup while crying. (At least, that was my divorced dad’s recipe.) But if you want to actually add some seasoning to your meat that doesn’t involve salty tears, you have plenty of options, as there’s a wide range of dedicated burger seasonings on the market.
(And just to clarify, we’re talking about burger patty seasoning that is specifically marketed towards burgers. If you’re just looking for something to spice up your ground beef, check out our best taco seasoning ranking.)
To help you decide on the right burger patty seasoning for you, we sampled a range of different options, tasting them on classic, not fancy at all, all-beef patties. So, here are our picks for the best burger seasonings you’ll find at your local supermarket (or on Amazon) whether you’re looking for a classic burger seasoning, a gourmet burger seasoning, or something totally new.
- McCormick Grill Mates Hamburger Seasoning
If you’re looking for a traditional, no-frills burger taste, this classic burger seasoning won’t distract from your basic burger flavor. But the mix of toasted onion, salt, black pepper, and garlic will definitely give your meat an extra kick, without taking over the whole deal. (And if you’re also into breakfast, I can say this mix is also the best burger seasoning for spicing up your hash browns.)
Credit: Merc / Amazon
- Weber Smoky Burger Seasoning
They don’t call it “smoky” for nothing. This burger patty seasoning features plenty of “natural smoke flavor,” along with toasted onion, roasted garlic, and brown sugar. It’s a great mix that gives it a flavor that reminds me of barbecued brisket, with plenty of smoky goodness and just a hint of sweetness. If you don’t have a day to spend tending to your meat in a hot smoker but you want that smoke-kissed flavor, this is the best burger seasoning for you.
Credit: Merc / Walmart
- Thundering Longhorn Brisket & Burgers
One of the more interesting burger seasonings I tried was this mix, which combines cumin, black pepper, ancho chiles, and espresso to make a Southwest flavor that would also double as a great chili spice mix. In fact, the bottle actually says, “Pssst: it also makes a mean pot of chili!” But it’s main purpose is to be a dry rub for brisket or to add that signature flavor to a burger patty. Although, it’s not quite as easy as dumping a load of canned chili on your burger and just calling it quits, which was another of my dad’s favorite recipes. It’s the best seasoning for a burger if you want that flavor experience without the slop.
Credit: Merc / Walmart
- McCormick Grill Mates Worcestershire Pub Burger Seasoning
You know Worcestershire sauce? The British sauce that combines vinegar, molasses and anchovies (for some reason)? Well, this burger patty seasoning gives all the tangy taste of Worcestershire sauce, but in spice form, and with some black pepper and garlic for some extra kick. And yeah, there’s probably some anchovy bits in there, too. But try not to think about it. It’s a gourmet burger seasoning that makes for a super savory, umami-packed patty.
Credit: Merc / Amazon
- Weber Flavor Bomb Burger Seasoning
The best burger seasoning is also the most unique seasoning blend of this bunch. This “flavor bomb” packs a lot of flavor, giving you an interesting mix of sweetness, tanginess, and smokiness. The sweetness comes from a mix of tomato powder and brown sugar, while you get a bit of heat from dried bell pepper and jalapenos. But, while it’s hard to describe, it’s definitely tasty and one of the best burger seasonings around. It’ll definitely ensure that your burger doesn’t taste like, well, just a burger.
Credit: Merc / Walmart
Best for a Basic Burger
Rating:
6/10
Sporks
Best for Smoky Burger
Rating:
8/10
Sporks
Best Chili Burger Flavor
Rating:
8/10
Sporks
Best Tang
Rating:
8/10
Sporks
Most Flavor
Rating:
9/10
Sporks
Other burger seasonings we tried: Famous Dave’s Seasoning Steak & Burger – Original Famous Blend, Gustus Vitae – The Taste of Life Everything But The Burger Seasoning & Rub, McCormick Burger Business by Tabitha Brown (Salt Free), McCormick Grill Mates Classic Smash Seasoning, The Burger Smasher Smashburger Blend, Weber Gourmet Burger Seasoning
