Krystal Burger from Krystal features a petite, soft steamed bun sandwiching a juicy seasoned beef patty, topped with tangy pickles and onions, offering a classic, savory flavor packed into a convenient, bite-sized experience.
Equipments
- Griddle or flat-top grill
- Bun steamer or microwave steamer
- Spatula
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Squeeze bottle (for condiments, if used)
- Tongs
- Sheet pan or plate (for assembling sandwiches)
- Food-safe gloves
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
- Slider buns (soft, petite square buns)
- Yellow onion
- Dill pickle chips
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Cooking oil or nonstick spray
Use an 80/20 blend of ground beef to achieve the perfect balance of juiciness and flavor in your Krystal Burger. Choose soft, petite square slider buns to replicate the original sandwich's signature texture and size. Fresh yellow onions and dill pickle chips are essential for delivering the tangy, savory bite that defines the classic Krystal flavor. Season the beef simply with salt and black pepper to keep the flavor profile true to the original. Your Krystal Burger copycat will capture the authentic taste and convenience of the iconic Krystal Burger from Krystal's menu.
Instructions
- Preheat griddle or flat-top grill to medium-high heat.
- Finely dice yellow onion on cutting board using chef’s knife.
- Shape ground beef into small, square patties (approx. 2 oz each) to fit slider buns.
- Season both sides of beef patties with salt and black pepper using measuring spoons.
- Lightly oil the griddle or spray with nonstick spray.
- Place diced onions directly onto the griddle in small mounds, sized for each patty.
- Place beef patties on top of the onions.
- Press patties gently with spatula to ensure good contact and shape.
- Cook patties for 2–3 minutes on the first side until browned.
- Flip patties with spatula, keeping onions underneath.
- Continue cooking for another 1–2 minutes until cooked through.
- Lightly steam slider buns in bun steamer or microwave steamer until warm and soft.
- Place bottom bun on plate or sheet pan.
- Transfer cooked patty (with onions) onto bottom bun using spatula or tongs.
- Top each patty with dill pickle chips.
- Add condiments if desired using squeeze bottle.
- Cover with top bun.
- Repeat assembly steps for remaining sliders.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Krystal Burger from Krystal copycat menu replicates the original's small, steamed bun hugging a seasoned beef patty with classic pickles and onions. If slider buns are unavailable, using mini brioche or dinner rolls can provide a similar texture and size. When a bun steamer is not accessible, wrapping buns in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 10-15 seconds softens them effectively. Ground beef with an 80/20 fat ratio is recommended for juiciness, but leaner beef can be used if you drain excess fat during cooking. Season your beef patty simply with salt and black pepper to maintain the nostalgic flavor, avoiding heavy spices that could mask the original taste.
Tips
Ensure patties are shaped evenly at about 2 oz each to promote uniform cooking and prevent drying out. Press beef gently onto the bed of diced onions to infuse savory flavors and avoid over-pressing, which can squeeze out juices. Warm slider buns briefly using a bun steamer or microwave steamer to maintain their soft texture and enhance overall bite quality. Use a spatula or tongs during assembly to keep patties intact and prevent mishandling your delicate sliders.
Nutritions
Krystal Burgers provide a balanced combination of protein and fat from an 80/20 ground beef patty, delivering roughly 140 calories and 9 grams of fat per slider, making them a satisfying snack or appetizer. The petite steamed buns contribute around 110 calories each, mainly from refined carbohydrates, while the diced onions and dill pickle chips add minimal calories but enhance flavor with vitamins and antioxidants. Your intake of sodium can be moderately high due to the seasoning and pickles, so consider your daily salt limits when enjoying these sliders. Using freshly prepared patties and steaming buns helps preserve nutrients and keeps the sliders moist and tender without added fats.
Storage
Store leftover Krystal Burgers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. Refrigerate promptly and consume within 2-3 days to ensure your sliders retain their juicy beef flavor and soft steamed buns. Reheat gently using a microwave steamer or oven to preserve the texture of both the patty and bun.
Variation or Alternatives
For a cheeseburger variation, add a slice of American or cheddar cheese on the patty during the last minute of cooking to melt it perfectly. You can substitute yellow onions with caramelized onions for a sweeter, richer flavor profile. Try using potato buns instead of slider buns for a softer and slightly denser texture that complements the juicy patties. Your choice of mustard or ketchup from a squeeze bottle can add a familiar tang or sweetness, enhancing the classic Krystal Burger experience.
Allergies
Krystal Burger contains ground beef, which is a common allergen for individuals with red meat allergies or sensitivities. The slider buns may contain wheat and gluten, posing a risk for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. Your allergy concerns should also consider potential reactions to onions and pickles, which can cause digestive discomfort or allergic responses in some people.
Why this recipe?
Krystal Burger's menu offers a unique blend of mini sliders that combine savory beef patties, soft buns, and signature sauces, creating a crave-worthy flavor profile. The consistent quality and nostalgic appeal attract loyal customers who enjoy bite-sized, flavorful options perfect for any meal. Recreating a copycat version allows you to enjoy this distinctive taste at home, ensuring freshness and customization to your preferences. Your homemade Krystal Burger can capture the essence of the original menu while providing a fun and satisfying cooking experience.