Steak N Shake Garlic Burger Recipe: Juicy Patty and Savory Garlic Flavor

I’ve perfected a Steak ‘n Shake garlic burger recipe that’s sure to satisfy your cravings for a juicy patty and savory garlic flavor. The secret lies in using high-quality ingredients and precise cooking techniques to achieve that perfect balance of flavors.

To recreate this signature dish at home, you’ll need to focus on crafting the perfect garlic-infused burger. I’ll guide you through the process, sharing tips on cooking temperatures and times to ensure your burger turns out juicy and full of flavor. Let’s get started!

Ingredients for Steak N Shake Garlic Burger

Gather quality ingredients for this Steak ‘n Shake garlic burger recipe at home easily.

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The beef matters here. 80/20 ground beef gives that perfect balance of juiciness and flavor. Most grocery stores carry it, but if you’re feeling fancy, butcher shop beef takes it up a notch. I usually grab mine from Costco when I’m doing a big batch.

No fresh garlic? Garlic powder is a decent substitute, but fresh is worth the extra minute. For the buns, store-bought brioche works great if you’re short on time. The cheese? American melts beautifully, but cheddar gives a nice sharpness. Thinly slice your onions and pickle them for a few minutes if you’ve got time.

These burgers reheat beautifully—honestly taste better the next day. Keeps 3-4 days in the fridge, freezes for 3 months. I portion mine into containers so lunches are sorted for the week. The garlic butter? Make extra and freeze it for next time.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Steak N Shake Garlic Burger

Let’s create this mouth-watering garlic burger with juicy patties and savory garlic flavor in just a few easy steps.

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter

Start by making the garlic butter that gives this burger its signature flavor. Take the 0.5 cup Unsalted Butter and soften it to room temperature. I like to leave it out for about 30 minutes before I start. Once softened, mix in the 6 cloves Garlic Cloves that you’ve minced until they are evenly distributed throughout the butter. The garlic should be fully incorporated, creating a smooth, aromatic mixture. Transfer this garlic butter to a small bowl and set it aside for later.

As you mix, you’ll notice the butter taking on a subtle garlic aroma. This is where the magic begins! The garlic butter will be used to toast the buns later, infusing them with that unmistakable Steak N Shake flavor.

Step 2: Form the Burger Patties

Now it’s time to form the burger patties. Take the 1.5 lb Ground Beef and gently form it into 4 equal portions. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can make the burgers tough. I like to use a kitchen scale to ensure each patty is about 6 ounces. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten it slightly into a patty about ¾-inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from puffing up too much during cooking.

Season both sides of each patty with 1 tsp Salt and 0.5 tsp Black Pepper. The seasoning should be evenly distributed, but don’t overdo it – you want to be able to taste the beef too!

Step 3: Cook the Patties to Perfection

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until it’s hot enough that a drop of water sizzles on contact. Add the patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. I like to use a thermometer to check for doneness – 130-135°F is perfect for medium-rare. During cooking, you’ll see the patties develop a nice crust on the outside while staying juicy within.

While the burgers are cooking, brush the tops with 2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce. This adds a depth of flavor that complements the beef beautifully. Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate and let them rest for a few minutes.

Step 4: Assemble the Burgers

To assemble the burgers, start by toasting the 4 whole Brioche Buns on the skillet or griddle. Spread a generous amount of the garlic butter you prepared earlier on the buns while they’re still warm. The heat will melt the butter slightly, creating a rich, garlicky flavor that soaks into the buns.

On the bottom bun, add a cooked patty, followed by a slice of Cheese Slices, a few slices of Lettuce, a slice of Tomato Slices, some slices of Pickle Slices, and finally a slice of Onion Slices. Top with the other half of the bun. The combination of flavors and textures will be incredible – you’ll love the way everything comes together!

Perfect Pairings for This Recipe

Classic Side Dishes

For a traditional Steak ‘n Shake experience, serve your garlic burgers with french fries or onion rings. The crispy exterior and fluffy interior of these sides perfectly complement the juicy burger. I like to use Russet potatoes for fries and vidalia onions for rings. 🍟

Refreshing Salads

A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the burger. For something more substantial, try a coleslaw made with shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, and a hint of vinegar. The creaminess pairs nicely with the savory garlic flavor.

Beverage Pairings

Soft drinks like cola or root beer are classic choices that complement the burger’s flavors. For beer lovers, a crisp lager or amber ale works well. If you prefer wine, a dry Pinot Noir or Chardonnay can be a nice match. I personally enjoy a cold glass of lemonade on a hot day. 🍺

Additional Toppings

Consider offering a variety of toppings to customize your burgers. Some popular options include caramelized onions, mushrooms, and crispy bacon. These additions can enhance the flavor and texture of your garlic burgers, making them even more enjoyable.

Dessert Ideas

Finish your meal with a sweet treat like vanilla ice cream or a chocolate brownie. For a more indulgent dessert, try a milkshake made with your favorite ice cream flavor. The creamy texture and sweetness provide a nice contrast to the savory burger. 🍦