KANSAS CITY — Restaurants are beefing up their burger offerings with new twists on the traditional fast-food staple.
McDonald’s is dishing up a deluxe version of one of its burgers. The new Quarter Pounder Deluxe features a ¼-lb beef patty, two slices of American cheese, slivered onion, pickles, lettuce, Roma tomato slices, ketchup, mustard and mayo on a toasted bun.
At Burger King, customization is key, and the fast-food chain’s new Stacker King sandwiches allow customers to choose how big or small they want their burger. The Stacker King features either one, two or three flame-grilled Whopper beef patties topped with thick-cut bacon, American cheese (one slice per patty) and a new Stacker sauce on a toasted bun.
Red Robin Gourmet Burgers & Brews is putting a plant-based spin on the classic burger with The Impossible Cheeseburger, incorporating the meatless, plant-based Impossible Burger patty topped with Red’s pickle relish, red onions, pickles, lettuce, tomatoes, mayo and a choice of cheese.
“Our guests have come to expect culinary innovation and variety at Red Robin, so it was important for us to offer a new meatless protein option that appeals to traditional burger lovers, flexitarians or anyone craving a unique flavor combination,” said Jonathan Muhtar, executive vice-president and chief concept officer at Red Robin. “The Impossible Burger marks a huge milestone for Red Robin, as we’re the largest casual dining restaurant chain to serve this meat-free option to guests.”
Fiery flavor is the differentiator in Denny’s new Southwest Chorizo Burger. The hot handheld that features a beef burger blended with chorizo sausage topped with cheddar cheese, bacon, pepper jack queso and a five-pepper sauce. The burger also contains lettuce, tomato, red onions and pickles all served on a cheddar bun with a side of wavy-cut fries.
Consumers’ ever-changing dietary preferences were the inspiration behind the new line of Lifestyle Burgers from Mooyah Burgers, Fries & Shakes. The lineup features five options: The Paleo, The Keto, The Whole30, The Vegetarian and The Gluten-Free.
“We know our guests have certain dietary restrictions and preferences that shape their lifestyles and meal choices, and we are committed to giving them options to accommodate those needs,” said Natalie Anderson-Liu, vice-president of brand for Mooyah. “Ultimately, we are aiming to provide all of our guests with lighter options should they embrace a lifestyle that includes certain dietary restrictions or preferences. Regardless of if our guests have restrictions due to health-related issues, or are sticking to a very specific nutrition plan, our new Lifestyle Burgers provide everyone with a quality option that they can feel good about.”
