California

Avocado Burger

Taste the Golden State's obsession with avocados in this fresh, vibrant burger. Creamy California avocado, crunchy sprouts, and a special sauce inspired by the West Coast's most beloved burger chain create the ultimate laid-back California experience.

35 min Serves 4 Fresh Grilled

Equipment Needed

  • 🔥 Flat Top Grill or Skillet
  • 🥣 Mixing Bowls
  • 🔪 Sharp Knife
  • 🥄 Spatula

Instructions

  1. 1

    Make the Special Sauce

    In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, sugar, and paprika until smooth. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to let flavors meld.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Avocado

    Cut avocados in half, remove the pit, and slice each half into 4-5 thin slices while still in the skin. Gently scoop out and fan the slices. Squeeze a little lemon juice over them to prevent browning.

  3. 3

    Form the Patties

    Divide ground beef into 4 equal balls. On a clean surface, press each ball into a thin patty about 1/2 inch thick and slightly larger than your buns. Season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic salt.

  4. 4

    Heat the Flat Top

    Heat a flat top griddle or large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot for that classic smash-style sear.

  5. 5

    Grill the Onions

    Add butter to the griddle and cook sliced onions, stirring occasionally, until softened and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Push to the side or remove and keep warm.

  6. 6

    Cook the Patties

    Place patties on the hot griddle and press down firmly with a spatula. Cook for 3-4 minutes until edges are crispy and browned. Flip, add American cheese immediately, and cook for 2-3 more minutes.

  7. 7

    Toast the Buns

    Butter the cut sides of the buns and place them cut-side down on the griddle. Toast until golden brown, about 1 minute. The slightly crispy bun is essential for the California burger experience.

  8. 8

    Assemble the Burgers

    Spread special sauce generously on both bun halves. On the bottom bun, layer lettuce, the cheesy patty, grilled onions, tomato slice, fanned avocado slices, and a handful of fresh sprouts. Crown with the top bun.

  9. 9

    Serve West Coast Style

    Serve immediately with a side of crispy fries and a chocolate shake for the authentic California burger joint experience. Wrap in paper for that classic feel!

Tips & Variations

  • Perfect Avocado: Choose avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure. Too firm and they'll be flavorless; too soft and they'll be mushy.
  • Animal Style: For the famous variation, add extra sauce, extra grilled onions cooked in mustard, and extra pickles.
  • Protein Style: Skip the bun entirely and wrap the whole burger in crisp iceberg lettuce for a low-carb California option.
  • Smash It: For extra-crispy edges, really press down on that patty when it first hits the griddle. The thin patty = more crust = more flavor.
  • Sprout Alternatives: If alfalfa sprouts aren't your thing, try microgreens, pea shoots, or even arugula for that fresh crunch.
  • Make Ahead: The special sauce keeps refrigerated for up to a week and actually improves after a day or two.