Smoked Burgers Recipe
Looking for the best Smoked Burgers recipe? These juicy smoked burgers are made with perfectly seasoned ground beef, slow-smoked for rich wood-fired flavor, then finished over high heat for a delicious crust. Topped with melted cheddar cheese and served on buttery toasted brioche buns with fresh toppings, these burgers are perfect for backyard BBQs, game days, or family dinners.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich smoky barbecue flavor
Juicy and tender beef patties
Perfect balance of smoke and seared crust
Easy smoker recipe
Great for cookouts and parties
Ready in about 1 hour
⏱️ Recipe Details
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 760 kcal per serving
Protein: 42 g per serving
🛒 Ingredients
For the Burgers
2 lb (900 g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
4 slices cheddar cheese
For the Buns & Toppings
4 brioche burger buns
2 tablespoons butter, softened
Lettuce leaves
1 large tomato, sliced
1 small red onion, sliced
Dill pickle slices
Burger Sauce
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon pickle relish
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
👨🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Patties
In a large bowl, combine:
Ground beef
Worcestershire sauce
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Smoked paprika
Salt
Black pepper
Mix gently until just combined.
Divide into 4 equal portions and shape into burger patties about ¾ inch (2 cm) thick.
Make a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to help prevent puffing during cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Smoker
Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
Use hardwoods such as:
Hickory
Oak
Cherry
Apple
Place the burger patties directly on the smoker grates.
Step 3: Smoke the Burgers
Smoke the burgers for 45–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches:
135°F (57°C) for medium-rare (before searing)
145°F (63°C) for medium (before searing)
Step 4: Sear & Melt the Cheese
Increase the grill or smoker temperature to 450°F (230°C), or transfer the burgers to a hot grill or cast-iron skillet.
Sear each side for 1–2 minutes to develop a flavorful crust.
Top each burger with a slice of cheddar cheese during the final minute and allow it to melt.
For food safety, cook ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Step 5: Toast the Buns
Butter the cut sides of the brioche buns.
Toast until lightly golden.
Step 6: Make the Burger Sauce
Whisk together:
Mayonnaise
Ketchup
Dijon mustard
Worcestershire sauce
Pickle relish
Smoked paprika
Garlic powder
Step 7: Assemble the Burgers
Spread burger sauce on both halves of each bun.
Layer with:
Lettuce
Smoked cheeseburger
Tomato slices
Red onion
Pickles
Serve immediately.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair these smoked burgers with:
French fries
Sweet potato fries
Onion rings
Coleslaw
Baked beans
Grilled corn on the cob
Potato salad
💡 Chef’s Tips
Use 80/20 ground beef for juicy burgers.
Handle the meat gently to keep the patties tender.
Let the burgers rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Apple and cherry wood provide a milder smoke, while hickory delivers a bolder barbecue flavor.
🧊 Storage
Refrigerator: Store cooked burger patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooked patties for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven or skillet until heated through.
🥗 Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: 760 kcal
Protein: 42 g
Carbohydrates: 33 g
Fat: 49 g
Saturated Fat: 18 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 7 g
Sodium: 920 mg
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best wood for smoked burgers?
Hickory, oak, cherry, and apple are all excellent choices. Hickory gives a stronger barbecue flavor, while apple and cherry provide a milder, slightly sweet smoke.
Why smoke before searing?
Smoking infuses the burgers with wood-fired flavor, while the final sear creates a flavorful crust and locks in the juices.
Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes. Ground turkey or chicken works well, but be sure to cook poultry to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What sides go well with smoked burgers?
French fries, onion rings, baked beans, coleslaw, potato salad, grilled vegetables, mac and cheese, or corn on the cob are all excellent choices.
