michigan olive burger recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best michigan olive burger recipe

This Michigan Olive Burger recipe has been a staple in our household for years. I first discovered it while visiting my in-laws in the Great Lakes region, where the abundance of fresh olives and rich soil create a unique flavor profile that’s hard to find elsewhere.

The combination of juicy beef, savory olives, and tangy seasonings is a game-changer for any burger enthusiast. As a busy mom, I appreciate how easy it is to prepare this recipe, as it can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary needs.

My kids love helping me assemble the burgers, and their excitement is always palpable when they take a bite. This recipe has become a beloved tradition during family gatherings and casual weeknight meals alike.

The best part? It’s surprisingly healthy, with the olives providing a boost of antioxidants and the lean beef keeping things lean and mean.

Whether you’re serving up burgers at a backyard BBQ or packing lunches for the kids, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Michigan Olive Burger

4.8 from 1319 votes

A classic Michigan diner-style burger topped with a creamy olive sauce and melted Swiss cheese. The tangy olive spread perfectly complements the juicy beef patty for a unique regional flavor.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time25 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 620 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Olive Sauce

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup finely chopped pimento-stuffed green olives
2 tablespoons olive brine
1 tablespoon finely chopped onion
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Burgers

1.5 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
4 slices Swiss cheese
4 hamburger buns, split and toasted
4 lettuce leaves
4 slices tomato

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, chopped olives, olive brine, onion, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper.
2Stir until well blended, then cover and refrigerate while you prepare the burgers to allow the flavors to meld.
3Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape each into a patty about 3/4 inch thick.
4Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
5Heat a large skillet or grill over medium-high heat until hot.
6Cook the patties for 4 to 5 minutes per side for medium doneness, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
7During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of Swiss cheese on each patty and cover the skillet to melt the cheese.
8Toast the hamburger buns in the skillet or on the grill for about 1 minute until lightly golden.
9Place a lettuce leaf and a tomato slice on the bottom bun, then set the cheeseburger patty on top.
10Spoon a generous amount of the olive sauce onto each patty, then close the burger with the top bun.
11Serve immediately while the patties are hot and the cheese is melted.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Large skillet or grill
Spatula
Small bowl
Knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 620 kcal🧈Total Fat: 38g💛Saturated Fat: 14g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 28g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 38g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, use ground turkey or chicken and substitute low-fat mayonnaise. The olive sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

Watch Video Of How Michigan Olive Burger Works

I’ve made this Michigan Olive Burger recipe countless times over the years, but it never gets old.

Whether you’re serving it at a backyard BBQ or packing lunches for school events, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

And with its surprising health benefits – thanks to those antioxidant-rich olives – you can feel good about what you’re feeding your family.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Michigan Olive Burger

1. What is a Michigan olive burger?

A Michigan olive burger is a hamburger topped with a creamy sauce made from chopped green olives and mayonnaise. It originated in Michigan diners and is known for its tangy, salty flavor. The sauce is often spread on the bun or spooned over the patty.

2. Can I use black olives instead of green olives?

You can use black olives, but the flavor will be milder and less briny. Green olives are traditional for this recipe because they have a sharper taste that stands up to the beef. If you use black olives, consider adding a splash of pickle juice or vinegar to mimic the tang.

3. How do I make the olive sauce ahead of time?

You can make the olive sauce up to three days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before using, or give it a quick stir to recombine any separated ingredients.

4. What type of bun is best for an olive burger?

A soft, sturdy bun works best, like a brioche or potato roll. The bun needs to hold up to the juicy patty and the creamy sauce without getting soggy. Toasting the bun lightly on the grill or in a skillet adds a nice crunch.

5. Can I make this recipe with ground turkey or chicken?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Just be careful not to overcook the patties, as lean poultry dries out quickly. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the meat mixture to keep it moist.

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