Michigan Olive Burger Recipe
Description:
The Michigan Olive Burger is a classic Midwestern favorite, especially popular in Lansing, Michigan. It features a juicy beef patty topped with a savory green olive and mayonnaise mixture, adding a salty, tangy twist that sets it apart from the typical cheeseburger. Often served on a toasted bun with lettuce and tomato, it’s a must-try for olive lovers.
Ingredients (Makes 4 Burgers):
For the Burger Patties:
1 ½ lbs (680g) ground beef (80/20 preferred)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
For the Olive Topping:
½ cup green olives, sliced (pimento-stuffed or plain)
½ cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp olive brine (from the jar)
1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
Other:
4 hamburger buns
4 slices Swiss or American cheese (optional)
Lettuce, tomato, onion slices (optionaloliv oilfor toasting buns
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Olive Topping:
In a small bowl, mix together:
Sliced green olives
Mayonnaise
Olive brine
Dijon mustard (if using)
Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
2. Make the Patties:
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce.
Form into 4 equal-sized patties, slightly larger than your buns (they shrink when cooking).
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat a skillet or grill to medium-high heat.
Cook patties for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until desired doneness.
In the last minute of cooking, add cheese if desired and let it melt.
4. Toast the Buns:
Butter the inside of each bun and toast on the grill or in a pan until golden.
5. Assemble the Burgers:
Place the patty on the bottom bun.
Add a generous scoop of olive mayo.
Add lettuce, tomato, and onions if using.
Toy with the other bun half and serve immediately.
Nutrition Information (Per Burger, Approximate):
Component Amount
Calories ~620 kcal
Protein 31g
Fat 45g
Saturated Fat 13g
Carbohydrates 25g
Sugar 4g
Fiber 2g
Sodium ~1200mg
Cholesterol 100mg
Note: Nutrition varies based on ingredients and toppings used.
Total Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: What kind of olives work best?
A: Green olives, especially pimento-stuffed, are traditional. You can use plain green olives or even Kalamata for a deeper flavor, but the classic taste is from green olives.
Q: Can I use a different protein?
A: Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based patty works. Adjust seasonings as needed.
Q: Is the olive topping spicy?
A: Not at all. It’s tangy and salty. You can add hot sauce or chopped jalapeños for heat.
Q: Can I make the olive topping ahead of time?
A: Yes, it keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I make this low-carb or keto?
A: Absolutely. Skip the bun or use a lettuce wrap, and make sure the mayo is sugar-free.