The key to an unforgettable burger is how you season it. This easy DIY Burger Seasoning uses just a handful of common spices to turn ground beef into something truly delicious. Mix it into your meat or sprinkle it on top, and your burger game will definitely level up!
Why this is the best seasoning for burgers
I love making my own spice blends because I know exactly what’s in them. No preservatives, anti-caking agents, or artificial flavorings; just pure, clean spices that deliver bold, delicious results. Luckily, you don’t need anything fancy to bring big flavor to your homemade burgers.
Our go-to burger seasoning is a simple blend of smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, cracked black pepper, brown sugar, ground mustard, and just a hint of cayenne for warmth. These everyday spices work together to enhance the natural flavor of the beef without overpowering it, resulting in a perfectly balanced, crave-worthy burger every time!
This blend has the perfect balance of smokiness, savoriness, and just a hint of sweetness (which helps with caramelizing) and spice. Once you try it, you’ll never want to go back to plain salt and pepper again! Try it on the best burger recipe!
Best Hamburger Seasoning Ingredients
- Kosher Salt: Start small if you’re watching your sodium!
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a warm, smoky flavor that mimics the grill.
- Garlic Powder: Deepens the savory flavor.
- Onion Powder: Adds subtle sweetness and umami.
- Brown Sugar: Balances the spices with just a touch of sweetness and helps to caramelize and crisp the burger a touch.
- Ground Black Pepper: Brings a little bite. Adjust to taste!
- Ground Mustard: Adds tang and a hint of sharpness.
- Cayenne Pepper: For just a touch of heat. If you don’t want any spiciness, you may omit this.
Get the full recipe in the recipe card below.
How to Store Homemade Burger Seasoning
Store your burger seasoning mix in an airtight container or spice jar in a cool, dry pantry or cupboard. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 6 months. Be sure to label the jar with the name and date!
How to make the best seasoning for burgers
In a small bowl, combine all of the spices and the brown sugar with a small whisk or a fork; store in an airtight jar.
How to Season Burgers
For well-seasoned ground beef you can use the seasoning in two simple ways, depending on how you like to build your burgers:
- Mix it into the meat: Use 1 tablespoon of seasoning per pound of ground beef, and gently mix until just combined before forming your patties.
- Sprinkle on top: Already formed your hamburger patties? Just sprinkle the seasoning evenly on both sides and gently press it in.
Pro tip: Let the seasoned patties rest for 10–15 minutes before cooking. This helps the flavor fully absorb into the meat.
Ways to Use Hamburger Seasoning Recipe (Beyond the Burger!)
This blend is a versatile all-purpose seasoning that can be used in a variety of ways. Try it on:
- Grilled chicken or chicken thighs
- Roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes
- Veggie burgers
- Ground turkey or lamb
- Homemade meatballs or meatloaf
- Steak bites or kabobs
- Oven-roasted chickpeas
FAQs for the Best Hamburger Seasoning
The best way to season hamburgers is with a simple mix of spices like kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a touch of brown sugar or ground mustard for balance. You can use a homemade burger seasoning blend (like the one above!) or season each patty individually.
Besides using a high-quality spice mix like this one, you can add additional flavor boosters to your hamburgers, just as I do in my homemade hamburger recipe. I add a few extra ingredients, such as Worcestershire sauce, grated cold butter, and a splash of heavy cream. These add depth, richness, and moisture!
Yes! Just omit the salt and add it separately when cooking or serving.
Yes! Sprinkle it on both sides of the burger patty before cooking, even if they’re frozen.
Variations for the Best Burger Seasoning
When it comes to seasoning burgers, the best blend is one that includes the flavors you love. Use this recipe as a starting point and adjust to your taste:
- For turkey or chicken burgers: Go heavier on the seasoning. Lean meats have less fat and flavor, so they need more help from your spice blend.
- Spice it up: Add chili powder, red pepper flakes, or cumin for extra heat and depth.
- Mix in herbs: Try oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme, or parsley to add a more herbal twist to your seasoning.
More Seasoning Recipes to Try
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Ingredients
- ½ – 1 tablespoon kosher salt if cutting back on salt, start with a smaller amount
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar dark or light – I used dark
- ½ – 1 teaspoon ground black pepper add more if you like it more peppery
- ¼ teaspoon ground mustard
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for heat You can add this Natalie
Instructions
- In a small jar or bowl, combine all the ingredients until well mixed. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.½ – 1 tablespoon kosher salt, 1 tablespoon smoked paprika, 2 teaspoons garlic powder, 2 teaspoons onion powder, 1 teaspoon brown sugar, ½ – 1 teaspoon ground black pepper, ¼ teaspoon ground mustard, ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- This blend makes enough to season 4 pounds of meat, equivalent to 16 quarter-pound burgers.
Notes
- Gently mix 1 tablespoon of seasoning per pound of ground beef before forming your patties. If using on ground turkey or chicken, add a bit more around 1 extra teaspoon.
- Or sprinkle on both sides of already-formed patties and gently rub it in.
- Let seasoned meat rest for 10–15 minutes before cooking to allow the full flavor to develop.
- Grill or Grill Pan (350–400°F):
- ⅓-pound patties: Cook 5–6 minutes per side
- Thinner patties: Cook 2–3 minutes per side
- Add cheese during the last minute if desired.
- Medium Rare: 130-135°F
- Medium: 145°F
- Medium Well: 150-155°F
- Well Done: 160-165°F
- Medium Rare (red in the middle): 6 minutes total (3 minutes on each side)
- Medium (pink in the middle): 7-8 minutes total
- Medium Well (smidge of pink in the middle): 9 minutes total
- Well Done (no pink): 10 minutes total
Nutrition
Natalie
love having this on hand to sprinkle on homemade burgers!
It’s the best!
Kathleen Miller
I just bought a meat grinder, added this recipe to cubed steak before grinding . So yummy.
Ooo how fun!! My grandma had a meat grinder I used to love watching her use it!! Thank you!