Epic National Burger Day Recipes & Ideas for 2025

Nothing says National Burger Day quite like the sizzling sound of patties hitting the grill, the irresistible aroma of toasted buns, and the joy of sharing delicious creations with friends and family. Whether you're craving iconic copycat burgers like the Big Mac or Whopper, experimenting with smash burger recipes, or planning a full-blown backyard bash, this guide has everything you need. From drool-worthy burger recipes to party planning tips and servingware ideas, we've got your National Burger Day recipes and celebrations covered.

🎉 Pro tip: Serving burgers is even more fun when they look as good as they taste. Explore our servingware collection for stylish, disposable trays, platters, and utensils that make hosting effortless while keeping cleanup quick and easy.

When Is National Burger Day & Why Celebrate?

Burgers are more than just a meal — they're an American icon. That's why every year, foodies across the country fire up their grills and gather with loved ones to celebrate National Burger Day.

When Is National Burger Day?

Mark your calendars: National Burger Day is celebrated annually on May 28th in the United States. The date is perfectly positioned to kick off summer grilling season, right around Memorial Day weekend. This timing makes it the ideal excuse for:

Backyard barbecues with friends and family
Trying out new burger recipes
Hosting themed burger parties with all the fixings
Showcasing creative toppings and buns
Using stylish servingware to make your setup stand out

Why Celebrate National Burger Day?

Burgers have a special place in our culinary culture — and celebrating them brings people together. Here's why this holiday deserves a spot on your event calendar:

It's a crowd-pleaser: Burgers are loved by adults and kids alike, making them the perfect menu item for gatherings.
Endless variety: From juicy beef patties to plant-based alternatives, there's a burger for everyone.
Easy to customize: Let guests choose their toppings for a fun, interactive experience.
Perfect for parties: Combine burgers with themed décor, music, and games for an unforgettable event.
Supports local eateries: Many restaurants offer discounts or free burgers on this day.

Ways to Celebrate in Style

To make your National Burger Day party Instagram-worthy and hassle-free, pair your delicious menu with disposable servingware that looks upscale but saves you from hours of cleanup:

Clear Round Plastic Serving Trays – Ideal for presenting stacked burgers with style.
Rectangular White Plastic Serving Trays – Great for organizing a toppings bar or burger sliders.
Clear Disposable Party Cups – Ideal for shakes, sodas, or iced tea.

💡 Hosting tip: Serve burgers with a DIY toppings station on rectangular serving trays so guests can customize their creations while you relax and enjoy the party.

National Burger Day Menu: Crafting the Perfect Line-Up

A winning National Burger Day menu is all about variety, flavor, and presentation. Whether you're cooking for two or hosting a backyard burger bash, the secret is to balance crowd-pleasing classics with creative twists.

Start with the Stars: Burger Varieties

Mix and match burger styles to keep your guests coming back for seconds:

Classic Cheeseburger – A juicy beef patty topped with melted cheddar, lettuce, tomato, and pickles.
Big Mac Copycat – All the iconic layers and "special sauce" in your own kitchen.
Whopper Copycat – Flame-grilled flavor with fresh veggies and mayo.
Blackstone Smash Burger – Crispy edges, juicy center, and irresistible sear.
Onion Smash Burger – Caramelized onions cooked right into the patty.
Veggie or Plant-Based Burger – A lighter option for vegetarian and vegan guests.

Sidekicks That Steal the Show

Pair your burgers with a mix of salty, crispy, and fresh sides:

Seasoned French fries or sweet potato fries
Onion rings with dipping sauces
Coleslaw or potato salad
Grilled corn on the cob
Fresh fruit skewers for a sweet touch

Beverages to Complete the Feast

No burger party is complete without refreshing drinks:

Ice-cold lemonade or iced tea
Craft beers or light lagers
Homemade milkshakes with whipped cream topping

Sample National Burger Day Menu

Course	Dish Idea	Servingware Suggestion
Main Burgers	Big Mac Copycat, Whopper Copycat, Smash Burgers	White Plastic Serving Trays
Sides	Fries, Onion Rings, Coleslaw	Rectangular White Plastic Serving Trays
Drinks	Lemonade, Craft Beer, Milkshakes	Clear Disposable Party Cups
Desserts	Mini Cheesecakes, Brownies	Round Plastic Cake Stands

Presentation Matters

Beautiful presentation turns a good burger party into an unforgettable one:

Round Plastic Serving Trays – Ideal for presenting burgers and sides in a neat and appetizing manner.
Rectangular Serving Platters – Great for a toppings bar or sliders.
Tiered Plastic Dessert Stands – Showcase desserts or small sliders in a stylish vertical display.

🔥 Pro tip: Arrange your toppings and sauces in small, clear disposable party cups for a neat and functional burger bar guests will love.

Big Mac Copycat Recipe: Golden Arches at Home

There's something about the Big Mac that makes it instantly recognizable — the double beef patties, the perfectly balanced toppings, and of course, the legendary "special sauce." The good news? You don't need a drive-thru to enjoy it. With the right ingredients and a few pro tips, you can recreate this fast-food legend in your own kitchen and wow your guests on National Burger Day.

The Secret to the Perfect Big Mac

The magic of the Big Mac comes from balance — every bite delivers the right mix of savory beef, tangy sauce, crunchy lettuce, and soft sesame seed bun. To nail it at home, focus on:

The Sauce: A creamy, tangy blend that combines mayo, mustard, relish, and spices.
The Patty Size: Thin patties that sear quickly, keeping them juicy but easy to stack.
The Layering: The iconic "middle bun" slice that separates the two patties and locks in flavor.

Big Mac Copycat Recipe

Servings: 4 burgers

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

8 small beef patties (about 1.6 oz each)
8 sesame seed burger buns (4 tops, 4 bottoms, plus 4 extra bottoms for the "middle" layer)
8 slices of American cheese
1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
8–12 pickle slices
½ cup finely diced onions
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Special Sauce:

½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons French dressing
1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
1 teaspoon white vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
¼ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon paprika

Instructions:

Make the Special Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
Toast the Buns: Lightly butter and toast all bun halves, including the extra bottom buns, for added texture.
Cook the Patties: Season beef patties with salt and pepper. Cook on a hot griddle or skillet for about 2–3 minutes per side until cooked through.
Assemble the Burgers:
- Bottom bun → Sauce → Onions → Lettuce → Cheese → Patty → Middle bun → Sauce → Onions → Lettuce → Pickles → Patty → Cheese → Top bun.
Serve Immediately: Place each burger on a sturdy tray or platter for serving.

💡 Pro Hosting Tip: Prepare patties ahead of time and keep them warm in a low oven. When guests arrive, set up a Big Mac assembly station with buns, toppings, and sauce in individual mini serving bowls so everyone can build their own.

Burger King Whopper Copycat Recipe for Flame-Grilled Flavor

The Whopper is famous for its smoky, flame-grilled flavor, fresh vegetables, and generous size. On National Burger Day, it's the perfect way to channel that classic fast-food taste while adding your own homemade twist. By following this recipe, you'll capture everything you love about the Whopper — and serve it up in style.

Why the Whopper Stands Out

What makes the Whopper different from other burgers? It's all in the details:

The Flame-Grilled Patty: That signature smoky char that's hard to resist.
The Size: A hearty quarter-pound beef patty that satisfies bigger appetites.
The Freshness: Crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, sliced onions, and tangy pickles.
The Mayo-Ketchup Combo: A creamy, tangy balance that ties it all together.

Burger King Whopper Copycat Recipe

Servings: 4 burgers

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

4 sesame seed burger buns (large)
4 quarter-pound beef patties
4 slices American cheese (optional)
4–8 leaves of iceberg lettuce
8 slices of tomato
8 slices dill pickle
8 rings of white onion
4 tablespoons mayonnaise
4 tablespoons ketchup
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prep the Veggies: Wash and slice lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and pickles. Keep them chilled until serving.
Toast the Buns: Lightly toast on a grill or skillet for added crunch.
Grill the Patties: Cook over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side, ideally on a charcoal or gas grill for that flame-kissed flavor.
Build Your Whopper: Spread mayo on the top bun and ketchup on the bottom bun. Layer lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, the patty, and cheese (if using). Cap with the top bun.
Serve Immediately: Keep the presentation neat by using sturdy serving pieces.

Servingware Picks for Whopper Night

A burger this bold deserves equally impressive presentation:

Gold Rim Plastic Serving Trays – Adds a touch of elegance for serving full-sized Whoppers to guests.
Large Clear Plastic Salad Bowls – Perfect for holding lettuce, tomatoes, and onions at your burger toppings bar.
Mini Clear Plastic Sauce Cups with Lids – Great for portioning mayo, ketchup, or burger sauce ahead of time.

💡 Hosting Tip: If you want that authentic Burger King taste without a grill, use a cast iron skillet with a few drops of liquid smoke in the pan to mimic the flame-grilled aroma. Serve burgers alongside pre-portioned sauces in mini clear plastic cups for a cleaner, faster buffet experience.

Blackstone Smash Burger Recipe: Crispy Edges, Juicy Center

Few burgers capture the hearts of grill enthusiasts quite like the smash burger — especially when made on a Blackstone griddle. The technique is simple but brilliant: pressing a small ball of beef onto a hot, flat surface creates a crispy, caramelized crust while sealing in juicy flavor. On National Burger Day, this recipe is a must for anyone who loves bold texture and fast cooking.

Why Blackstone Smash Burgers Are Special

This burger style is all about speed and flavor:

Quick Cooking: Thin patties cook in minutes, making them perfect for feeding a crowd.
Maillard Reaction Magic: The intense sear brings out deep, savory notes.
Customizable: Pair with any toppings — from classic American cheese to spicy jalapeños.
Fun to Make: The smashing process is as satisfying as eating the burger itself.

Blackstone Smash Burger Recipe

Servings: 6 burgers

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 6 minutes

Ingredients:

2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
6 brioche buns
6 slices American or cheddar cheese
1 small red onion, sliced
1–2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat the Griddle: Heat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high.
Form the Beef Balls: Roll ground beef into 3-ounce balls.
Smash & Sear: Place a beef ball on the hot surface, cover it with parchment paper, and press it with a spatula or burger press until it's about ¼-inch thick.
Season & Flip: Season with salt and pepper. After 90 seconds, flip the pancake and cook for an additional minute. Add cheese to melt.
Toast the Buns: Butter and toast on the griddle for 30 seconds.
Assemble & Serve: Layer patty, onions, and any extra toppings you like. Serve immediately for maximum crispiness.

Servingware for Smash Burger Perfection

Because smash burgers are thin and crisp, presentation and plating make them pop:

Black Plastic Serving Trays – Sleek, modern style that makes your burger spread look restaurant-ready.
White Plastic Serving Stands – Great for serving mini smash burgers or sides like fries and onion rings.
Rectangular Clear Plastic Serving Platters – Perfect for neatly arranging multiple patties or sliders for a buffet line.

💡 Hosting Tip: Use 2-tier serving stands to add height to your burger station — put smash burgers on the bottom tier and crispy sides on the top for an eye-catching display.

Onion Smash Burger Recipe: Sweet Caramelized Crunch

If you love your burgers with extra flavor and texture, the onion smash burger is your dream come true. This twist on the classic smash burger involves pressing thinly sliced onions directly into the patty as it cooks, creating a caramelized crust that's both sweet and savory. On National Burger Day, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser — easy to make in batches and bursting with bold flavor.

What Makes Onion Smash Burgers Unique

Unlike standard burgers, these pack the onions right into the seared side of the patty:

Built-in Flavor: Onions cook in the beef juices for a rich, savory sweetness.
Extra Crunch: Caramelization adds a satisfying crisp bite.
Low Effort, High Reward: Only one step more than a classic smash burger, but the flavor payoff is huge.
Perfect for Serving Crowd-Style: Make several at once on a flat-top or griddle.

Onion Smash Burger Recipe

Servings: 6 burgers

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 6 minutes

Ingredients:

2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend)
6 brioche or potato buns
1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
6 slices provolone, Swiss, or cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prep the Onions: Slice onions paper-thin so they cook quickly and evenly.
Form Beef Balls: Roll into 3-ounce portions.
Smash with Onions: Place beef ball on the hot griddle, top with a small handful of onions, and smash down firmly with parchment paper.
Cook & Flip: Let the onions caramelize for about 2 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes. Add cheese to melt.
Toast Buns: Lightly butter and toast until golden.
Assemble & Serve: Add your favorite condiments and serve hot.

Servingware Picks for Onion Smash Burgers

Because these burgers are aromatic and eye-catching, the right serving pieces help highlight them:

Silver Rim Plastic Serving Plates – Elegant yet practical for displaying onion smash burgers in neat rows.
Large White Plastic Salad Bowls – Great for holding extra caramelized onions, lettuce, or toppings.
Mini Clear Plastic Appetizer Cups – Perfect for serving individual portions of burger sauces or pickles.

💡 Hosting Tip: Set up a toppings bar with mini clear appetizer cups for sauces so guests can easily dip or drizzle without the mess — perfect for onion burgers with lots of juicy flavor.

National Burger Day Party Ideas with Smarty Had A Party Gear

Burgers are the star of the show on National Burger Day, but the party atmosphere is what turns a simple cookout into a memorable event. With the right gear from Smarty Had A Party, you can create a setup that's stylish, practical, and easy to manage — all without breaking the bank.

Theme Ideas for Your Burger Bash

Backyard BBQ Classic: Red and white tablecloths, pitchers of lemonade, and hearty cheeseburgers served on durable trays.
Gourmet Burger Night: Elevated toppings like brie, truffle aioli, and caramelized onions, served on elegant plastic platters.
DIY Burger Bar: Let guests build their dream burger with a toppings station featuring a variety of cheeses, sauces, and fresh vegetables.
Slider Sampler Party: Offer mini versions of multiple burger styles, allowing everyone to try them all.
Family-Friendly Cookout: Include fun games, music, and kid-friendly burger options with colorful serving pieces.

Benefits of Using Smarty Had A Party Gear

Free Shipping on Orders Over $49 – Get everything you need for your party delivered right to your door at no extra cost.
Lowest Price Guarantee – If you find a lower price, Smarty Had A Party matches it so you can shop with confidence.
Premium Look, Disposable Convenience – Enjoy upscale presentation without the hassle of washing dishes.
Durable & Reliable – Our servingware can handle juicy burgers, heavy sides, and large crowds with ease.

💡 Pro Tip: Use a clear plastic dome lid to keep burger buns or sliders fresh until serving time — guests will love the professional look.

Score Free Burgers on National Burger Day: Insider Tips

Who doesn't love a free burger? One of the best perks of National Burger Day — beyond eating your own delicious creations — is that many restaurants, food trucks, and local diners offer special deals, BOGO offers, and even completely free burgers. With a bit of planning, you can enjoy both a homemade burger bash and a free treat from your favorite spot.

Where to Look for Free Burger Deals

National Chains: Keep an eye on popular burger spots like Burger King, McDonald's, Wendy's, Smashburger, and Red Robin — they often run promotions for National Burger Day.
Local Favorites: Many hometown restaurants participate with discounts or freebies, especially if you follow them on social media.
Food Delivery Apps: Platforms like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub sometimes offer promo codes for free or discounted burgers.
Grocery Stores: Some supermarkets have in-store deals on fresh patties or pre-made burgers.

Tips to Maximize Your Free Burger Haul

Join Loyalty Programs: Sign up for rewards programs at your favorite burger joints before the holiday — many send exclusive coupons to members.
Follow Social Media Announcements: Check Instagram and Facebook for flash deals.
Go Early: Popular spots can sell out of free burgers quickly.
Plan a Mini Burger Crawl: Grab a friend and visit multiple locations to sample different styles.

Hosting & Freebies: The Best of Both Worlds

Even if you plan to head out for free burgers, you can still host a small at-home celebration before or after your food crawl. Make it easy with disposable servingware so you can focus on enjoying the day:

Silver Rim Round Plastic Serving Plates – Elegant for displaying homemade burger sliders before heading out.
Large Black Plastic Salad Bowls – Perfect for serving chips, salads, or toppings for quick bites.
Mini Clear Plastic Serving Spoons – Ideal for portioning sauces, pickles, or toppings neatly.

💡 Pro Tip: If you're bringing free burgers home, replate them on silver-rim serving plates for a more upscale presentation — your guests will never guess they came from a drive-thru.

Share Your National Burger Day Party with #SmartyHadAParty

One of the best parts of National Burger Day is seeing how other burger lovers celebrate — from towering burger stacks to creative toppings and mouthwatering sides. This year, we're inviting you to join the conversation and showcase your burger party style with #SmartyHadAParty.

Why Share Your Burger Bash?

Inspire Others: Your party setup could give someone the perfect idea for their own celebration.
Get Featured: We regularly highlight our favorite customer photos on our social media channels.
Build Community: Connect with other food lovers who share your passion for burgers.
Show Off Your Hosting Skills: From your burger recipes to your table décor, you've worked hard — share it!

How to Join the Fun

Host your National Burger Day party using your favorite Smarty Had A Party servingware.
Snap high-quality photos of your food, table setup, and guests enjoying themselves.
Post them to Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok with the hashtag #SmartyHadAParty.
Tag us for a chance to be featured and inspire our growing community of party planners.

Celebrate National Burger Day in Style

National Burger Day is more than just an excuse to enjoy a juicy burger — it's a chance to gather with friends, explore new recipes, and create lasting memories. Whether you're grilling a Big Mac copycat, flipping Whoppers on the barbecue, or crafting crispy Blackstone smash burgers, the key to a truly unforgettable celebration is combining incredible food with a party setup that wows your guests.

And that's where Smarty Had A Party comes in. With our vast range of stylish servingware, you can present your burgers, sides, and drinks in a way that looks upscale but saves you hours of cleanup.

Shop & Plan Your Party Today! Don't wait until the last minute to prepare — start planning your menu and stocking up on servingware now. Your burgers will be the star of the show, but your table setup will make the experience unforgettable.

👉 Explore the Servingware Collection and get ready to host the ultimate National Burger Day celebration.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When is National Burger Day celebrated in the US?

National Burger Day typically falls on May 28 each year, giving grill masters a late-spring excuse to fire up the patties well before summer arrives.

2. What are the best National Burger Day ideas for a small backyard party?

Keep it simple: set up a DIY toppings bar, mix smash-burger techniques for speed, and serve on Smarty's disposable palm-leaf plates so cleanup is as quick as the cook-time.

3. How can I create a Big Mac copycat recipe without a special sauce?

Blend mayo, ketchup, sweet relish, onion powder, and paprika—let it sit 30 minutes. Layer two thin patties, shredded lettuce, pickles, and a sesame bun to nail the flavor.

4. What's the secret to an authentic Burger King Whopper copycat recipe?

Char the patty over open flame (or high broiler), use freshly sliced tomatoes, a light swipe of mayo, and toast the sesame bun—smoke is what turns a burger into a "Whopper."

5. Can I cook a Blackstone smash burger recipe on a regular stovetop?

Yes. Pre-heat a cast-iron skillet until it's screaming hot, then smash 3-oz balls of 80/20 beef for 10 seconds, flipping once; you'll get those coveted lacy, crispy edges.

6. How do I avoid soggy onions in an onion smash burger recipe?

Use thinly shaved onions, pat them dry, and smash the patty directly onto the onion layer for instant caramelization and crunch—no excess steam, no sogginess.

7. What should be on my National Burger Day menu for vegetarians?

Portobello or black-bean smash burgers, sesame brioche buns, smoky chipotle mayo, and plenty of fresh toppings keep plant-based guests just as happy as meat-eaters.

8. Are there really free burgers on National Burger Day, and how do I find them?

Many chains offer limited coupons or app-based deals; follow your favorite brands on social media the week before May 28 and set push alerts so you don't miss a freebie.