This post is sponsored by Ohio Beef Council, although all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Whiskey Burgers are a great way to take your average burger to a not-so-average burger. The burgers are marinated in garlic, whiskey (bourbon), and a little salt and pepper. It sounds so simple but will leave a flavor that you won’t forget!
Are you ready to take your burger game to the next level? Let’s dive into the world of whiskey burgers! If you’re searching for the perfect whiskey burger recipe, you’ve come to the right place. These aren’t just your average grilled patties; they’re infused with garlic, a splash of whiskey (or bourbon), and seasoned to perfection. Get ready for a taste sensation that will make these whisky burgers your new go-to for cookouts and weeknight meals.
I am a burger queen! Like, really. Burgers are my jam. Arguably one of my favorite things to eat on the planet. And not just any burger! I can enjoy something as simple as a Steak Garlic Butter Burger or something as robust as a Bacon Cheeseburger with all the works. When I first heard of whiskey burgers, I had to try them immediately. I’m sure glad I did because they are super tasty.
Why Whiskey Burgers Are a Must-Try
What makes whiskey burgers so special? It’s the unique marinade that elevates the flavor profile. The subtle whiskey notes, combined with garlic and spices, create a depth of flavor that’s unexpected and utterly delicious. This whiskey burger recipe is simple, but the results are anything but ordinary.

How to Make the Best Whiskey Burgers
Making perfect whiskey burgers is easier than you might think! Here’s a step-by-step guide to making these mouthwatering creations:
Prepare the Beef:
- Take your ground beef and place it in a bowl.
- Season the beef with your favorite seasoning.
- Form into beef patties.
Create the Whiskey Marinade:
- Add about 1 ½ cups of whiskey (or bourbon) to a bowl.
- Add about 3-4 crushed garlic cloves.
- Add a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Whisk together and pour over the burgers.



Marinate the Burgers:
You can marinate the burgers in one of two ways:
- Place the patties in a large plastic bag, pour the whiskey marinade into the bag, and seal it. Toss the bag to coat both sides of the patties and refrigerate.
- Pour the marinade into a shallow bowl or plate and place the patties in the bowl for 15 minutes on each side.
Grill the Whiskey Burgers:
Once the patties have marinated, it’s time to grill! Heat up your grill and get ready for some incredible whiskey burgers.
Toppings for these burgers
How a person makes a hamburger is much like their personality. For instance, I am pretty straightforward and low-key so I always go with sliced cheddar cheese, lettuce, mustard, and pickles on my burger and I’m fun. But my husband likes a fried egg, special burger sauce, and everything else but onions. My recommendation if you are going to make these hamburgers is to make a hamburger bar where people can make their own burgers how they like. Here are some favorite toppings ideas:
- Ketchup
- Mustard
- Mayo
- Bacon
- Lettuce
- Sliced Red Onion
- Sliced Tomatoes
- Carmelized onions
- Cheese Slices: Cheddar, American, Pepper Jack
- Onion straws
- Sliced Avocado
- Fried Eggs
- Brioche hamburger Buns
- Regular Hamburger Buns

Tips for Grilling the Perfect Whiskey Burgers
Beef is a great source of protein with essential nutrients. Here are some tips for grilling the best whiskey burgers:
- Keep the beef chilled until ready to grill.
- Place a dimple in the middle of the patties to minimize shrinking.
- Never press down on a burger; only flip once.
- Use a meat thermometer! 145°F for medium-rare, 160°F for medium, and 170°F for well done.
To learn how to become a grill master, follow these simple grilling guidelines.

Commonly Asked Questions
No, the whiskey adds a fantastic flavor without being overpowering.
Yes, but the whiskey flavor may be more pronounced.
Any whiskey or bourbon will work. Use what you have on hand!
Similar Recipes
If you like burger recipes like this one, you will like the recipes below!
- BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger
- Lean Beef Burgers with Kale Slaw
- Copycat McRib Sandwich
- Grilled Greek Burgers with Tzatziki Sauce

Easy Whiskey Infused Burgers Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
Juicy whiskey burgers recipe! Learn how to infuse beef with garlic & whiskey for unforgettable flavor. Easy steps & topping ideas included
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 c. whiskey
- 3–4 Garlic Cloves, crushed
- 2 lb. ground beef
- 1 tbsp. Kosher Salt
- 1 tbsp. BBQ Seasoning
- 2 tsp. Onion powder
- 2 tsp. Garlic powder
- 1/2 tbsp. Coarse Black Pepper
- 1 1/2 tbsp. Worcestershire Sauce
- Toppings: Hamburger Buns, lettuce, red onion slices, slices of cheese, pickle, and bacon.
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, pour the whiskey, add the crushed garlic cloves, and pinch of salt and pepper. Stir together and set aside.
- Add the ground beef to a medium mixing bowl. Add the kosher salt, BBQ Seasoning, onion and garlic powder, black pepper, and Worctershire sauce. Use your hands to mix in the seasonings into the beef.
- Form the beef into 4 ½ pound patties and flatten to about a ½ inch. You can make more burgers if you would like. Sprinkle the patties on both sides with kosher salt and pepper on both sides.
- Place the burgers in a large refrigerator sealed plastic bag. Pour the whiskey mixture over the bugers inside of the bag. Seal the bag. Toss the bag back and forth to coat the burgers. Place in the refrigerator for, at least, 30 minutes.
- Prepare the grill, according the manufacturers instructions. Once the grill is ready for cooking, spray the grill grate with non stick cooking spray. Place the burgers on the grill, and cook them one side at a time for 5-7 minutes. Do not flip back and forth, only once. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for doneness.
- Once the burgers are near done on both sides, add the cheese while still on the grill. Once the cheese has melted, remove from grill and allow to site for 5-10 minutes covered with aluminum foil. Serve the burgers as desired.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Grill
- Cuisine: American
Oh wow I never would have thought of marinating burger patties in whiskey. I will totally be trying this at the cottage this weekend. I’m sure they will be a hit!
These look like the perfect summer “kickback” burgers! I’m definitely saving this one!!
I want a bite of that burger right now, crunchy-burgers