Build the Ultimate Alberta Pork Burger
There’s a new burger trend, and it starts with Alberta pork. From juicy smash burgers to hearty thick patties, pork burgers offer incredible flavour, versatility and endless opportunities for customization.
Whether you’re grilling for a backyard barbecue, creating restaurant-inspired burgers at home or looking for a fresh take on burger night, Alberta pork offers a delicious alternative that’s packed with flavour.
Sliders
Sliders are smaller burgers that deliver big flavour. They’re perfect for parties, appetizers, game-day spreads or building a DIY burger bar.
How to Make Them
Form 2-ounce portions of ground pork into 4-inch patties. Grill or pan-fry until cooked through and slightly caramelized on the outside. Serve on mini buns or soft dinner rolls.
Slider Variations to Try
- Spicy Korean-Inspired: Gochujang mayo, quick-pickled cucumbers, shredded carrots and sesame slaw.
- BBQ Ranch: Crispy onion strings, smoky barbecue sauce and ranch slaw.
- Mediterranean Style: Feta cheeese, cucumber ribbons, tomato and lemon herb sauce.
- Jalapeño Popper: Cream cheese spread, jalapeños and crispy bacon crumble.
- Dill Pickle Crunch: Dill pickles, pickle slaw and garlic aioli.
Stuffed Burgers
Stuffed pork burgers take cheeseburgers to another level by sealing flavourful fillings directly inside the patty. When cooked, the centre becomes rich, melty and packed with flavour.
How to Make Them
Form two thin pork patties using 3 ounces of pork each. Place filling in the centre of one patty, leaving a border around the edges. Place the second patty on top and firmly seal the edges to keep the filling inside during cooking.
Filling Ideas
Stuff burgers with:
- Sharp cheddar, Swiss or Blue cheese
- Chopped jalapeños
- Sautéed mushrooms
- Bacon and onion jam
- Roasted peppers
These are ideal for gourmet burger nights or entertaining guests.
Thick Burgers
Thick pork burgers create a hearty, steakhouse-style meal with a juicy centre and bold pork flavour. Their larger size makes them ideal for creative toppings and elevated presentations.
How to Make Them
Use approximately 8 ounces of ground Alberta pork per burger and form patties about 1 inch thick. Avoid overworking the meat to keep the texture tender. Grill over medium-high heat or cook in a cast-iron pan, turning occasionally until fully cooked.
Thick Burger Topping Ideas
Because thick burgers are substantial, they pair well with:
- Crispy onions
- Maple barbecue sauce
- Smoked gouda
- Avocado
- Thick-cut bacon
For a brunch-inspired twist, serve a thick pork burger on waffles with maple syrup and top with a fried egg.
Smash Burgers
Pressing a patty onto a hot cooking surface creates deep caramelization and rich flavour, resulting in crispy edges and juicy centres.
How to Make Them
Start with 3-ounce balls of ground Alberta pork. Heat a flat-top griddle or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until very hot. Place the pork ball on the surface and immediately press it down using a burger press or sturdy spatula until it reaches about ¼-inch thickness. Cook until the edges become crispy and browned, then flip and finish cooking thoroughly.
Best Toppings for Smash Burgers
Because smash burgers are thin and crispy, they pair well with classic toppings like:
- Pickles
- Melted cheddar
- Caramelized onions
- Fresh tomatoes
- Shredded lettuce
Double-stacking patties creates an extra indulgent burger experience.
Cooking Tip!
Whichever burger your choose, make sure to use a thermometer and cook thoroughly until the burger reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
