I still remember the first time I took a bite of an olive burger—it was during a summer trip to Michigan. We had stopped at a small roadside diner with retro booths, milkshake machines humming, and that irresistible scent of grilled patties in the air. I wasn’t prepared for the tangy burst of flavor from the olive topping. It was bold, unexpected, and entirely unforgettable. From that day forward, the olive burger became a nostalgic favorite in my kitchen.
In Michigan, the olive burger isn’t just a sandwich—it’s a local legend. And while many burgers are topped with cheese, bacon, or onions, this one dares to be different. It’s creamy, salty, slightly tangy, and incredibly satisfying. Today, I’m sharing the most delicious, balanced version of the olive burger—with tips and variations so you can make it your own.
Why Everyone Falls in Love with Olive Burgers
People adore this recipe because it delivers on every level:
- Texture: Juicy, charred beef meets creamy olive sauce and soft buns.
- Flavor: A perfect contrast of rich beef and briny green olives.
- Nostalgia: A Midwest tradition that brings comfort and uniqueness.
- Ease: Simple ingredients, fast prep, and very customizable.
What You’ll Need to Make Olive Burger?
Here’s everything to build your perfect olive burger:
For the Burger Patties:
- 1 lb ground beef (80–85% lean for juiciness)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
For the Olive Sauce:
- 3/4 cup green olives (pimento-stuffed, finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded lettuce
- Tomato slices
- Pickles
- Sliced red onions
- Cheese (Swiss or cheddar work great)
Buns:
- 4 brioche or sesame burger buns (toasted)
Ingredient Variations & Substitutions
- Turkey or Chicken Burgers: Swap beef for leaner proteins.
- Keto-Friendly: Use lettuce wraps instead of buns.
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños to the olive sauce.
- Dairy-Free: Use vegan mayo and omit cream cheese.
How to Make the Perfect Olive Burger
- Prepare the Olive Sauce
In a bowl, combine chopped green olives, mayo, cream cheese, lemon juice, and smoked paprika. Stir until well blended and creamy. Chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld. - Form the Patties
Mix ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Form into 4 evenly sized patties, about 3/4-inch thick. - Grill or Pan-Fry
Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 4–5 minutes per side, flipping only once. They should reach an internal temp of 160°F. - Toast the Buns
Slice buns and toast cut-side down on the grill or in a pan until golden. - Assemble the Burgers
Spread olive sauce on both halves of each bun. Add the patty, layer with lettuce, tomato, or any toppings you love. Top with more sauce and the other half of the bun.
Pro Tips for the Best Olive Burger
- Use a mix of mayo and cream cheese for a thicker, tangier sauce.
- Don’t overwork the meat while shaping patties—keep it loose and tender.
- Chill the sauce so the olive flavor intensifies.
- Lightly toast the buns to prevent sogginess from the sauce.
Choose high-quality olives—fresh, briny olives make all the difference.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tried an olive burger, you’re in for something special. It’s bold yet balanced, creamy yet crisp. Whether you’re revisiting an old favorite or discovering this Michigan gem for the first time, this recipe delivers comfort with a gourmet twist. Plus, it’s easy to adapt and quick to prepare, making it a dinner go-to year-round.
So go ahead, fire up the grill—or stove—and give this iconic burger a place in your regular meal rotation. Your taste buds will thank you!
The Ultimate Olive Burger Recipe: A Savory Midwestern Classic Reimagined
This bold and savory Olive Burger is a delicious twist on the classic beef burger. Packed with juicy ground beef, sharp cheddar cheese, and topped with a generous helping of chopped green olives and a creamy, tangy olive-mayo sauce, it's the perfect balance of salty and savory. Whether grilled or pan-seared, this burger delivers a mouthwatering flavor experience with every bite.
Ingredients
For the Burger Patties:
For the Olive Sauce:
Optional Toppings:
Buns:
Instructions
-
In a bowl, combine chopped green olives, mayo, cream cheese, lemon juice, and smoked paprika. Stir until well blended and creamy. Chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
-
Mix ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Form into 4 evenly sized patties, about 3/4-inch thick.
-
Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 4–5 minutes per side, flipping only once. They should reach an internal temp of 160°F.
-
Slice buns and toast cut-side down on the grill or in a pan until golden.
-
Spread olive sauce on both halves of each bun. Add the patty, layer with lettuce, tomato, or any toppings you love. Top with more sauce and the other half of the bun.
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 720kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 52g80%
- Total Carbohydrate 29g10%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 35g70%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
