Go Back

Delicious Irish Pub Burger Recipe

This Delicious Irish Pub Burger Recipe is the ultimate gourmet burger experience, inspired by classic Irish pub fare. Juicy, well-seasoned beef patties are topped with melted Irish cheddar, crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and a rich Guinness cheese sauce, all served on a toasted brioche or pretzel bun. Perfect for a hearty meal or a St. Patrick’s Day celebration!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 750 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Burger Patties:

  • 1 ½ lbs ground beef 80/20 blend
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

For the Guinness Cheese Sauce:

  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup Guinness beer
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded Irish cheddar cheese or Dubliner cheese
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Toppings & Extras:

  • 4 brioche or pretzel buns lightly toasted
  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon crispy
  • 1 large onion caramelized
  • 1 cup arugula or shredded lettuce
  • 2 Roma tomatoes sliced
  • ¼ cup whole-grain mustard or aioli optional

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Burger Patties

  • In a large bowl, mix ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  • Form into four patties, about ¾-inch thick, and make a small indentation in the center of each patty.
  • Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 2: Make the Guinness Cheese Sauce

  • Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
  • Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
  • Slowly add Guinness beer, whisking constantly.
  • Pour in heavy cream and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
  • Stir in shredded Irish cheddar and garlic powder until smooth.
  • Season with salt and pepper, then set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon and Onions

  • Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add sliced onions and a bit of butter or oil. Cook on low for 15 minutes until caramelized.

Step 4: Cook the Burger Patties

  • Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat and lightly oil it.
  • Cook the patties for 4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer if desired.
  • During the last minute, top with a slice of Irish cheddar and cover to melt.

Step 5: Assemble the Irish Pub Burger

  • Lightly toast the buns.
  • Spread whole-grain mustard or aioli on the bottom bun.
  • Layer lettuce, tomato slices, and the cooked burger patty.
  • Drizzle warm Guinness cheese sauce over the patty.
  • Add crispy bacon and caramelized onions.
  • Cap with the top bun and serve immediately!

Notes

  • For extra juiciness, avoid over-mixing the beef.
  • Make it spicier by adding jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat on a skillet.
  • For a vegetarian version, use a portobello mushroom or plant-based patty.
  • Pair with Guinness beer or Irish fries for an authentic pub experience.