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Cozy Oktoberfest Pretzel Bun Burgers with Mustard Aioli

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These Cozy Oktoberfest Pretzel Bun Burgers feature a juicy, beer-spiked patty on a salty, chewy pretzel bun, all tied together with a tangy, creamy mustard aioli. They’re a full-on flavor experience that feels like a warm hug on a cold day.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • ¼ cup dark beer (like a Dunkel or a brown ale)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 large pretzel buns
  • 4 slices sharp cheddar or Swiss cheese (optional)
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 small clove garlic, grated
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Pinch of salt and pepper
  • Thinly sliced red onion (for serving, optional)
  • Pickled jalapeños or banana peppers (for serving, optional)
  • Fresh arugula or butter lettuce (for serving, optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the Mustard Aioli: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, whole-grain mustard, Dijon mustard, honey, grated garlic, and apple cider vinegar. Whisk until smooth. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cover and set aside in the fridge.
  2. Prepare the Burger Patties: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground beef, dark beer, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, caraway seeds (if using), salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix without overworking. Divide into 4 equal portions (about 6 ounces each) and form into patties slightly larger than the buns. Make a small indent in the center of each patty with your thumb.
  3. Toast the Pretzel Buns: Slice the pretzel buns in half. Toast them in a toaster or on a dry skillet over medium heat until lightly golden and warm.
  4. Cook the Patties: Heat a cast iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Place the patties in the skillet, leaving space between them. Cook for 4-5 minutes on the first side. Flip carefully. If adding cheese, place a slice on each patty immediately after flipping and cover the skillet with a lid for the last minute to melt. Cook for another 3-4 minutes for medium doneness (160°F internal temperature).
  5. Assemble the Burgers: Spread a generous amount of Mustard Aioli on both halves of each toasted pretzel bun. Place the cooked patty on the bottom bun. Add desired toppings (red onion, pickled peppers, arugula or lettuce). Place the top bun on and press down gently.
  6. Serve Immediately: Enjoy hot, straight off the skillet, with extra aioli for dipping if desired.

Notes

Don’t overmix the meat to avoid dense patties. Chill the formed patties for 15-20 minutes before cooking to help them hold shape. Use the aioli as a barrier on the bun to prevent sogginess. Let patties rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking to redistribute juices. The aioli can be made a day ahead for better flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Oktoberfest, pretzel bun burger, mustard aioli, beer burger, comfort food, game day, fall recipe

Find it online: https://milacook.com/cozy-oktoberfest-pretzel-bun-burgers-with-mustard-aioli/