If you’ve never had a Michigan Olive Burger, prepare yourself because your burger game is about to change forever. We’re talking about a juicy beef patty, perfectly grilled or pan-seared, topped with a creamy, briny green olive mayo that adds just the right tangy punch. It’s bold, it’s messy (in the best way), and it’s loaded with personality.

This is one of those regional gems that deserves way more love. Originating from Michigan diners, the olive burger has built a cult following and once you try it, you’ll get why. It’s comfort food with a twist, giving you the best of classic Americana with a salty, savory upgrade. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer.

Why You’ll Love Michigan Olive Burger

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect for summer cookouts, quick weeknight dinners, or a fun twist on burger night.

Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients you likely already have on hand make this a wallet-friendly indulgence.

Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and fast cooking just the way burgers should be.

Customizable: Use any ground meat, cheese, or bun you like. You’re in charge of the vibe here.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Michigan Olive Burger

Here’s what makes this burger uniquely addictive:

Ground Beef: The juicy, flavorful base. Use 80/20 for the perfect fat ratio and that classic, tender bite.

Green Olives: The real star. Chopped and briny, they give that salty-savory kick that sets this burger apart.

Mayonnaise: Creamy, rich, and the perfect base to mellow the olive flavor and make it spreadable heaven.

Worcestershire Sauce: A dash of umami goodness to deepen the beef flavor.

Cheddar Cheese: Melty, sharp, and essential for that classic burger richness.

Burger Buns: Soft yet sturdy enough to hold everything together. Brioche is a winner, but any toasted bun works.

Lettuce and Tomato (optional): For a bit of crunch and freshness that balances the creamy richness.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment: If using a grill, preheat to medium-high. For stovetop cooking, heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until hot.

Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, gently mix the ground beef with Worcestershire sauce. Don’t overwork the meat—just enough to combine for juicy burgers.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Oil your grill grates or pan lightly to prevent sticking.

Assemble the Dish: Form the ground beef into patties slightly larger than your buns (they’ll shrink as they cook). Season with salt and pepper.

Cook to Perfection: Grill or sear the burgers for 3–4 minutes per side for medium doneness. In the last minute of cooking, add cheese to melt over the top.

Finishing Touches: While burgers cook, mix the chopped olives with mayo in a small bowl to make the olive sauce. Toast your buns for extra texture and flavor.

Serve and Enjoy: Spread olive mayo on the top and/or bottom bun. Stack the burger patty, then add lettuce, tomato, or any other fixings you love. Cap it off with the top bun and dive in!

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 610

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

How to Serve Michigan Olive Burger

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
– Serve with crispy fries or kettle chips for that perfect diner vibe
– Add a side of creamy coleslaw or a pickle spear for crunch and tang
– Pair with a fizzy soda or a cold lager
– Swap out the bun for a lettuce wrap if you’re going low-carb
– Top with a fried egg or crispy bacon for an extra indulgent twist

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
– Don’t overmix your beef gentle handling = juicy burgers
– Chop olives finely for better spreadability and even flavor in each bite
– Toasted buns make a big difference in texture and taste
– Add a splash of olive brine to the mayo for more tang if desired
– Make the olive mayo ahead it gets even better after a chill in the fridge
– Let burgers rest for a couple of minutes before assembling to lock in juices
– Try a mix of green and Kalamata olives for a more complex flavor
– If you’re using leaner beef, add a pat of butter to the pan for extra juiciness
– Always season the outside of the patties just before cooking
– Keep napkins handy this one gets deliciously messy

FAQ’s

1. What kind of olives should I use?
Green manzanilla olives are traditional, but any briny green olive works well.

2. Can I use a different meat besides beef?
Yes! Turkey, chicken, or plant-based patties can all work beautifully.

3. Is olive mayo spicy?
Not at all—it’s creamy and tangy with a mild, savory flavor.

4. Can I make the olive mayo in advance?
Absolutely! Store it in the fridge for up to 5 days.

5. What cheese goes best with an olive burger?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but Swiss or provolone are tasty swaps.

6. How do I keep the burgers juicy?
Use 80/20 ground beef, don’t overmix, and let them rest after cooking.

7. Do I have to grill the burgers?
Nope! A skillet or griddle works just as well.

8. Can I freeze olive burgers?
Yes, freeze patties separately and olive mayo in an airtight container.

9. What buns are best for this burger?
Brioche, potato rolls, or even pretzel buns hold up beautifully.

10. Can I add extra toppings?
Definitely! Bacon, pickles, caramelized onions go wild!

Conclusion

The Michigan Olive Burger is proof that sometimes the most unexpected ingredients make the most unforgettable dishes. That creamy olive mayo takes a familiar comfort food and turns it into something totally crave-worthy. Whether you’re a burger traditionalist or an adventurous eater, this recipe brings bold flavor, diner-style satisfaction, and a whole lot of joy to your plate. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a Michigan legend!

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