How to Make a Garbage Plate Burger That’ll Blow Your Mind
How to Make a Garbage Plate Burger That’ll Blow Your Mind
This Garbage Plate Burger is more than just a meal; it’s a nostalgic journey back to my college days in Rochester, New York. I remember the late-night runs to the local diner, where friends and I would indulge in this glorious concoction after a long week of studying. The combination of flavors and textures was always a delightful surprise, and now, I want to share that experience with you!
What Makes It Special
This recipe stands out for several reasons:
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of juicy burger, creamy mac salad, and zesty hot sauce creates a flavor profile that is simply unforgettable.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: This dish is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.
- Customizable: You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste, making it a versatile option for any palate.
Gather Your Ingredients
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 cup macaroni salad
- 1 cup baked beans
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (your choice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, onions, pickles
Let’s Get Cooking
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Preheat your grill or stovetop skillet over medium-high heat.
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Form the ground beef into four equal patties, seasoning each with salt and pepper.
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Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired doneness.
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While the burgers are cooking, warm the baked beans in a small saucepan over low heat.
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Once the burgers are done, assemble your Garbage Plate Burger: place a patty on the bottom bun, top with macaroni salad, baked beans, and drizzle with hot sauce.
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Finish with any additional toppings you desire, then crown it with the top bun.
My Pro Tips
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For an extra kick, try adding jalapeños or spicy mustard to your burger.
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Use homemade macaroni salad for a fresher taste; it’s easier than you think!
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Don’t skip the hot sauce; it’s what ties all the flavors together.
What to Serve With It
- French fries or sweet potato fries
- Coleslaw for a refreshing crunch
- A cold beer or soda to wash it down
- Chocolate chip cookies for dessert
FAQs
Q: Can I use turkey or veggie patties instead of beef?
A: Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and turkey or veggie patties will work just as well.
Q: How can I make this dish healthier?
A: You can use lean ground beef, whole grain buns, and add more veggies to the toppings.
The Heart of the Dish
This Garbage Plate Burger is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories. Every bite takes me back to those carefree days with friends, laughter, and late-night adventures. I hope it brings you as much joy as it has brought me!
Your Turn
I invite you to try this recipe and make it your own! Feel free to experiment with different toppings and sauces. I’d love to hear your thoughts and any variations you come up with. Happy cooking!

How to Make a Garbage Plate Burger That’ll Blow Your Mind
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 hamburger buns
- French fries or sweet potato fries
- 1 cup coleslaw for a refreshing crunch
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A cold beer or soda to wash it down
- Chocolate chip cookies for dessert
Instructions
- Preheat the grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the ground beef with salt and pepper, then shape it into 4 patties.
- Cook the patties on the grill or skillet for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until cooked to your desired doneness.
- While the burgers are cooking, prepare the fries according to package instructions.
- Once the burgers are almost done, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty and let it melt.
- Toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
- Assemble the burgers by placing the patty on the bottom bun, topping with coleslaw and a drizzle of barbecue sauce.
- Serve the burgers with a side of fries and enjoy with a cold beer or soda.
- Finish your meal with chocolate chip cookies for dessert.




