The Whopper Jr. from Burger King features a flame-grilled beef patty topped with fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, sliced onions, pickles, ketchup, and mayonnaise, all nestled inside a soft sesame seed bun, delivering a classic, savory burger experience in a compact size.
Equipments
- Grill (flame grill or broiler)
- Spatula
- Tongs
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Bun toaster or toaster
- Squeeze bottles (for ketchup and mayonnaise)
- Refrigerator
- Food prep table
- Stainless steel pans/trays (for toppings)
- Food service gloves
Ingredients
- 1 small flame-grilled beef patty (approx. 2 oz/57g)
- 1 soft sesame seed bun (junior size)
- 1 leaf fresh lettuce
- 2 slices ripe tomato
- Few rings sliced onion
- 2–3 sliced dill pickles
- Ketchup
- Mayonnaise
The Whopper Jr. requires a small flame-grilled beef patty weighing around 2 oz (57g) to replicate its authentic texture and flavor. Fresh produce like a crisp lettuce leaf, two ripe tomato slices, a few onion rings, and 2-3 dill pickle slices are essential for achieving the signature taste profile. A soft, junior-sized sesame seed bun holds these ingredients together while maintaining the classic burger size. Ketchup and mayonnaise should be dispensed carefully using squeeze bottles to evenly coat the sandwich without oversaturation. Your homemade Whopper Jr. from Burger King copycat menu will deliver a savory, flame-grilled experience just like the original.
Instructions
- Instructions Needed:
- Preheat the grill or broiler.
- Place the beef patty on the grill and cook until fully done, flipping as needed.
- While the patty cooks, slice tomatoes and onions on the cutting board.
- Tear or cut lettuce to fit the bun.
- Slice the sesame seed bun and toast it until lightly golden.
- Lay out pickles, sliced onions, tomato slices, and lettuce on a stainless steel tray.
- Once cooked, remove the beef patty from the grill with tongs.
- Place the bottom half of the toasted bun on the prep table.
- Add the cooked beef patty onto the bun base.
- Layer sliced pickles, onions, tomato slices, and lettuce on top of the patty.
- Squeeze ketchup and mayonnaise onto the top bun.
- Place the top bun (with condiments) over the assembled ingredients.
- Wrap or plate the assembled Whopper Jr. for serving.
Substitution
When making a Whopper Jr. from Burger King at home, you can substitute the flame-grilled beef patty with a broiled or pan-fried patty if a grill is unavailable, maintaining the savory flavor profile. Using a regular hamburger bun is acceptable if a junior-sized sesame bun is not on hand, but toasting it enhances texture and taste. Fresh lettuce can be replaced with iceberg or romaine for crunch, and if ripe tomatoes are out of season, sun-dried tomatoes provide a concentrated flavor alternative. You can customize ketchup and mayonnaise quantities using squeeze bottles for precise application, ensuring your burger stays neat and flavorful. Keeping your cutting board and knife clean during prep helps prevent cross-contamination and maintains ingredient freshness.
Tips
Ensure your grill or broiler is preheated properly to achieve that authentic flame-grilled flavor and fully cook the 2 oz beef patty without drying it out. Use a sharp knife and clean cutting board to slice tomatoes, onions, and pickles evenly, which helps maintain consistent texture and flavor in every bite. Toast the junior sesame seed bun until it is lightly golden to add a subtle crunch and prevent sogginess from the condiments. Apply ketchup and mayonnaise sparingly with squeeze bottles to balance moisture and enhance the savory taste without overwhelming the fresh toppings.
Nutritions
The Whopper Jr. contains approximately 310 calories, with 17 grams of fat, including 7 grams of saturated fat, and 12 grams of protein from its 2 oz flame-grilled beef patty, providing a substantial source of protein. It also offers dietary fiber and vitamins from fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and onions, enhancing the burger's nutritional profile. With 680 mg of sodium from the beef, pickles, ketchup, and mayonnaise, your intake should be monitored especially if you are watching salt consumption. This compact burger offers a balanced mix of macronutrients, making it a reasonable option when you want a classic, savory taste in a smaller portion.
Storage
Store the Whopper Jr. in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess, especially if not consumed immediately. Keep refrigerated at 40degF (4degC) or below to inhibit bacterial growth, and consume within 24 hours for the best taste and safety. Avoid freezing as it may negatively impact the texture of the bun and fresh vegetables, affecting your enjoyment of the burger.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute the small flame-grilled beef patty with a grilled chicken breast or a plant-based patty for a healthier or vegetarian option. Instead of mayo, try using avocado spread or a spicy aioli to add a unique flavor dimension. For a crispier texture, consider grilling the vegetables briefly before adding them to the sandwich. Toasting the bun on the grill instead of a toaster can impart a subtle smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Allergies
The Whopper Jr. contains common allergens such as wheat from the sesame seed bun, eggs and soy in the mayonnaise, and sesame seeds themselves, which can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. The beef patty, while not a common allergen, may pose issues for those with specific meat allergies. You should always check ingredient labels and consult with the restaurant if you have severe allergies to ensure your safety.
Why this recipe?
The Whopper Jr. menu from Burger King is popular due to its satisfying flame-grilled beef patty, fresh lettuce, tomato, pickles, and signature creamy mayonnaise, all served on a soft sesame seed bun. Customers appreciate its smaller size compared to the classic Whopper, making it a convenient option for a quick, flavorful meal without excess calories. Creating a copycat version allows you to enjoy the iconic taste at home while customizing ingredients to suit your preferences. Your ability to replicate the Whopper Jr. experience can deliver fast food flavor with fresh, quality components tailored to your liking.