If You’re Looking For A Low-Maintenance Dinner Party Idea, Try A Making A Burger Bar For Your Guests

rh2010 - stock.adobe.com - illustrative purposes only, not the actual people
rh2010 - stock.adobe.com - illustrative purposes only, not the actual people

Nothing says fun and casual dining quite like a burger bar. It’s a great way to cater to various tastes while allowing guests to customize their own meals.

Plus, this kind of dinner party setup not only simplifies your hosting duties but also turns the meal into an interactive experience – allowing your guests to become their very own burger chefs for the evening.

So, here are our top tips and tricks for throwing together the ultimate dinner party burger bar.

The Basics: Buns and Patties

To begin, we obviously have to start with the foundation of any good burger: the buns and patties.

It’s a good idea to offer a variety of buns, including classic sesame, whole wheat, brioche, and even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. You can also prepare them in advance by keeping them warm in your oven or on a warming tray.

For the patties, you can get creative and think beyond just beef, too. For instance, consider things like turkey, chicken, salmon, and plant-based options to ensure there’s something for everyone.

Cheeses

A wide range of cheeses can also transform a burger from just good to great. That’s why you will want to include some staples like American and cheddar and then add some gourmet options like blue cheese, smoked gouda, or Havarti.

rh2010 – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purposes only, not the actual people

Don’t forget to arrange them nicely on a platter with cheese knives and labels, and keep in mind that pre-sliced cheese will help save your guests time during burger assembly.

Toppings Galore

This is where you can really get creative because no burger is complete without a fun mix of toppings. You can, of course, set up a toppings station with classics like lettuce, tomato, and onions. Then, add in some more unique options like grilled pineapple, avocado slices, crispy onions, sautéed mushrooms, and even jalapeños.

Don’t forget about condiments, either, like ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, BBQ sauce, and a special aioli or two to spice things up.

As for aesthetics and functionality, small bowls or mason jars with labels can keep toppings organized and visually appealing.

Sides and Salads

While we may all love to go to town on just a burger from time to time, it’s still crucial to round out your burger bar with a variety of sides.

French fries and onion rings are a must-have, but you can also consider sweet potato fries, coleslaw, and a variety of salads like a classic Caesar, a vibrant Greek salad, or a fresh mixed greens salad to add some balance to the meal.

You can keep hot sides warm by using warming trays. Then, serve them in large bowls or platters to accommodate larger groups.

Set the Scene

Burger bars, no matter how dolled up, are simple and low-maintenance. So, for your dinner party, you will want to create a casual and inviting atmosphere.

You can use either a long table or a series of smaller tables and decorate them with fun, informal, and nostalgic touches. For instance, checkered tablecloths and string lights.

When you put out the food, just make sure your toppings and sides are easily accessible, and consider having plates at the start of the line with utensils and napkins at the end.

Beverages and Desserts

Last but not least, a good burger meal isn’t complete without a refreshing beverage.

So, allow guests to pair their burgers with a range of drink options by offering sodas, lemonade, iced tea, and perhaps a few craft beers or a selection of wines.

And for dessert, you can continue keeping it simple and nostalgic with some good old-fashioned milkshakes, ice cream sundaes, or a platter of freshly baked cookies.

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Hi, I'm Bre, Chip Chick's CEO! I have a degree in Textile/Surface Design from The Fashion Institute of Technology. ... More about Bre Avery Zacharski

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