Unquestionably, burgers are among many people’s favorite American comfort foods. However, not many people realize how each region of the country crafts their burgers differently. Southern burgers feature smoky barbecue flavors and are lovely, tender, and slightly sweet, while Midwest burgers are known for their cheesy and creamy textures. Cheesy burgers are oh so delicious. For culinary adventurers, here are five amazing and unusual American regional burgers worth traveling to experience.
The Juicy Lucy (Minnesota)
This famous Midwestern burger hides a surprise inside—part of the beef patty is sewn with melted cheese. The melted cheese is well incorporated inside the beef patty, ensuring that each garnished and cooked burger delivers a bite filled with cheesy goodness. The richness of the cheesy bite per mouthful is unreachable. For cheesy burgers, the main allergen is dairy; cheese substitutes for lactose and dairy can be used. For unmatched juicy cheeseburgers, the Midwest is the best region to enjoy the creative burgers. The Midwest is a creative region in America and the Juicy Lucy is a fine example.
Green Chile Cheeseburger (New Mexico)
This Southwestern delicacy features roasted Hatch green chiles sitting above a beef patty, topped with cheese, and typically served in a toasted bun. The toasted bun and roasted green chiles give the southwestern green chile cheeseburger a spicy and smokey flavor, which the cheese subdues. The chiles offer health benefits by being high in vitamin C and containing antioxidants. The allergens are primarily gluten and dairy. With the southwestern traditions, the green chile cheeseburger is a unique and spicy addition to the American collection of burgers.
Butter Burger (Wisconsin)
Coming from the Dairy State, the Butter Burger is precisely what it sounds like: a juicy beef patty topped with a chunky slice of butter, which also melts into the bun. Made with butter, ground beef, onions, and American cheese, the butter softens the burger and boosts its flavor and richness. Dairy is, of course, a concern for some, but in the Midwest, it’s a favorite. For those seeking rich, indulgent burgers, the Butter Burger is a must-try in the US.
Slugburgers (Mississippi)
Originating in the Depression era, the Slugburger is a Southern classic that has gained national recognition. It is made by combining either ground pork or beef with soy meal or flour, deep-fried, and served with pickles and mustard. It has a crunchy texture while still being affordable. It is a flavorful and crispy burger that is budget-friendly, though soy and gluten are common allergens. The Slugburger is a true Southern classic that is one of the most unique burgers in the different regions of America.
Onion Burger (Oklahoma)
During the Great Depression, people used cheap onions to stretch hamburgers. It was at that time that the Oklahoma onion burger was created while the patties were being cooked. It is an onion burger classic with the addition of cheese, mustard, pickles, and a toasted bun. The sweet and moist caramelized onions that top the burger provide a perfect balance of texture and flavor. The main allergens in this dish are gluten and dairy. It is proof that lentils in Oklahoma are filled with history and flavor.
Conclusion
Different regional burger styles speak to the innovation and history of American food culture. American regional burgers reflect the uniquely American traditions of the regions they come from, from the cheesy Minnesota surprise to the spicy New Mexico chile. Burgers in the Midwestern and Southern states tend to highlight the unique culinary traditions of the region, and for that reason, trying the best regional burgers in the United States is an excellent representation of the rich American food variety.
