Popular burger styles have shaped some of my favorite memories—like the day my grandma served me my first burger stacked high with homemade pickles and a buttery toasted bun. That bite sparked a lifelong love for exploring every twist on the classic.
In this article, you’ll discover the most iconic styles—from cheeseburgers and gourmet truffle burgers to wild PB&J creations and plant-based options. We’ll cover regional favorites, burger-building rules, and more. Let’s dive into the world of burgers, one juicy layer at a time.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Popular Burger Styles
What Makes a Burger “Popular”?
Popular burger styles stand out for their bold flavor, texture, and the comfort they bring. From a juicy patty to the perfect bun, the best styles strike a balance that keeps people coming back. It’s not just about taste—it’s about how a burger feels.
Some gain fame through nostalgia, others through wild creativity. Explore how it all began in the History of Burgers.
The Evolution of Burger Styles in America
Burger styles have grown from simple cheeseburgers to gourmet creations. American classics paved the way, but today’s trends embrace global flavors and over-the-top toppings.
Don’t miss the rich, savory twist in our Truffle Smash Burger—a modern favorite redefining what makes a burger truly popular.
Classic Burger Styles That Dominate the Scene
The All-American Cheeseburger
When it comes to popular burger styles, the all-American cheeseburger still leads the pack. It’s simple, satisfying, and timeless—made with a beef patty, melted cheese, lettuce, tomato, and a soft toasted bun. This classic remains the most eaten burger across the U.S., thanks to its unbeatable flavor and nostalgic appeal.
Fast food chains and backyard grills alike keep this style front and center. It’s the blueprint many modern burgers still follow today.
For a deeper dive into fast food variations, check out the Burger King Double Cheeseburger Nutrition breakdown.
Gourmet Burger Styles Gaining Popularity
Truffle Smash Burgers: A Flavor Bomb
Among today’s popular burger styles, the truffle smash burger stands out for its rich, upscale flavor. It features crispy-edged patties smashed on a hot griddle, layered with truffle aioli, caramelized onions, and gooey cheese. It’s indulgent, aromatic, and a favorite at trendy burger spots.
This style shows how simple ingredients can be elevated with gourmet touches.
Craving this luxurious flavor? Try our full Truffle Smash Burger recipe—it’s bold, buttery, and unforgettable.
The Kobe Burger: Luxury on a Bun
The Kobe beef burger is another premium pick rising among popular burger styles. Made with finely marbled Japanese beef, it delivers a melt-in-your-mouth texture that sets it apart. Often paired with minimal toppings, the focus stays on quality meat.
Want a taste of true luxury? Explore how the Kobe Burger brings fine dining flair to the burger world.
Fusion & International Burger Styles
Peanut Butter and Jelly Burgers
One of the most surprising popular burger styles is the peanut butter and jelly burger. It blends sweet and savory by topping a beef patty with creamy peanut butter and fruity jelly. This quirky combo has gained serious fanfare for its bold flavor contrast.
Looking for something daring? Try our Peanut Butter and Jelly Burger to see why this fusion is turning heads—and taste buds.
Korean BBQ and Kimchi Burgers
Korean-style burgers bring a punch of spice and umami to the scene. Featuring marinated beef, gochujang sauce, and tangy kimchi, this global twist is climbing the list of popular burger styles for good reason.
For more globally inspired bites, explore the range of fusion ideas in our PBJ Burger collection—it’s where creativity meets craveability.
Healthy & Plant-Based Burger Styles
Black Bean and Beyond: The Rise of Veggie Burgers
As more eaters seek cleaner options, popular burger styles now include plant-based powerhouses like black bean, lentil, and Beyond Meat patties. These burgers pack protein without the meat and still deliver bold, satisfying flavor.
They’re perfect for anyone craving a lighter bite without losing that classic burger feel.
Craving plant-based richness? Don’t miss our savory Black Angus Beef Gourmet Burgers, which also offer clean, quality protein in a bold style.
Lettuce-Wrapped and Keto Burgers
For low-carb lifestyles, lettuce-wrapped burgers are among the most practical popular burger styles. Swapping the bun for crisp lettuce keeps things light while letting the fillings shine. These styles are ideal for keto and paleo eaters who still want that big burger flavor.
Need more burger inspiration with fewer carbs? Check out our Hangover Burger (No Bacon)—a great example of indulgence without the bun.
Over-the-Top Trendy Burger Creations
Hangover Burgers: Ultimate Breakfast Meets Burger
A true standout in popular burger styles, the hangover burger combines breakfast favorites with a beefy twist. Think fried egg, hash browns, cheese, and a juicy patty stacked high—perfect for brunch or late-night cravings.
Looking for a bold, bunless twist? Try our Hangover Burger (No Bacon) for a lighter spin that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Tower and Stuffed Burgers
Burgers stuffed with cheese or stacked with outrageous toppings are trending fast. These towering creations include everything from mac and cheese to onion rings inside the bun. They’re among the most eye-catching popular burger styles on social media today.
Want something wildly inventive? Discover bold builds like the Truffle Burgerbest that go far beyond the ordinary.
Regional Burger Styles Across the USA
West Coast vs. East Coast Burger Styles
When comparing popular burger styles, regional differences shine. On the West Coast, In-N-Out-inspired burgers rule—thin patties, secret sauce, and fresh toppings. Meanwhile, the East Coast favors heavier builds, with thick patties and bold seasonings.
Explore how these styles reflect local flavor and culture in our Burgers Lake Guide—a great resource on regional twists.
Southern-Style Burgers with a Kick
Southern burgers bring heat and heart. Expect spicy mayo, fried green tomatoes, and barbecue sauce. These burgers are bold, messy, and deeply satisfying—true icons in popular burger styles across the South.
Craving Southern flavor? Don’t miss the smoky layers of our Steakhouse Burger, full of bold seasoning and southern charm.
Burger Assembly Techniques – The 5-6-7 Rule and Beyond
What Is the 5-6-7 Rule for Burgers?
Among tips that shape popular burger styles, the 5-6-7 rule stands out. It refers to grilling patties for 5 minutes (rare), 6 minutes (medium), or 7 minutes (well-done) per side. This simple timing guide helps home cooks get perfect doneness every time.
Mastering this rule ensures every burger is juicy, flavorful, and cooked to your taste.
Tips for Burger Construction from Pros
Beyond timing, build order matters. Start with the bun base, layer sauce, lettuce, patty, cheese, toppings, then the top bun. This prevents sogginess and maximizes flavor in all popular burger styles.
Want a creative build that nails both structure and taste? Explore our Peanut Butter and Jelly Burger for a fun yet balanced stack. And for gourmet construction tips, visit our Black Angus Beef Gourmet Burgers guide.
FAQs About Popular Burger Styles
What is the most popular style of burger?
The classic cheeseburger remains the king of all popular burger styles. Its simple blend of beef, cheese, and toppings makes it a favorite across all age groups and regions.
What is the 5 6 7 rule for burgers?
This grilling method suggests cooking your patty for 5 minutes (rare), 6 minutes (medium), or 7 minutes (well-done) per side—helping you nail the doneness every time.
What is the most eaten burger?
The most eaten burger in America is the fast-food style double cheeseburger—quick, satisfying, and widely available. Learn more in our Burger King Double Cheeseburger Nutrition breakdown.
Which type of burger is best?
The best burger depends on taste, but many fans love gourmet options like the Truffle Smash Burger for its bold, rich flavors that elevate the burger experience.
Conclusion: Which Burger Style Reigns Supreme?
From classic cheeseburgers to bold truffle creations, popular burger styles continue to evolve while staying rooted in flavor and satisfaction. The best style isn’t just about ingredients—it’s the one that brings you back for another bite.
Still exploring your favorite? Don’t miss our full Truffle Smash Burger guide or take a flavorful detour through the Burgers Lake Guide for more regional inspiration. The perfect burger is out there—and now you know where to look.
Print
Popular Burger Styles: From Classic Cheeseburgers to Truffle Smash Hits
Explore iconic burger styles—from timeless cheeseburgers to gourmet truffle smash creations, plant-based innovations, and over-the-top towers. Each style delivers bold flavor and unforgettable texture.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Beef patties (classic, smash, Kobe, etc.)
- Cheese (cheddar, American, gourmet options)
- Buns or lettuce wraps
- Condiments: ketchup, mustard, mayo, truffle aioli, gochujang
- Toppings: lettuce, tomato, onion, bacon, kimchi, fried egg
- Plant-based patties: black bean, Beyond Meat
- Specialty add-ons: peanut butter, jelly, hash browns, mac and cheese
Instructions
- Select your burger style (classic, gourmet, fusion, plant-based, etc.).
- Grill or smash patties based on the 5-6-7 rule: 5 mins (rare), 6 mins (medium), 7 mins (well-done) per side.
- Toast buns or prepare lettuce wraps.
- Add condiments to the bottom bun or wrap.
- Layer patty, cheese, and toppings of choice.
- Finish with the top bun or lettuce leaf.
- Serve hot with fries or salad.
Notes
Experiment with fusion flavors like Korean BBQ or PB&J. For a low-carb option, skip the bun and go for a lettuce wrap. Stack carefully for structural integrity—follow the build order: bun, sauce, greens, patty, cheese, toppings, top bun.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg