Hamburger seasoning

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoonssalt
• 2 tablespoonsMSG (monosodium glutamate)
• 1 tablespoonblack pepper
• 1/2 teaspoongarlic powder

Instructions

1. 1

   Measure ingredients

   Measure out the salt, MSG, black pepper and garlic powder.

2. 2

   Mix the blend

   Add the ingredients to a jar or resealable bag and mix them together.

3. 3

   Store the seasoning

   Keep the mixture in a lidded container in a cool place until ready to use.

What is hamburger seasoning?

Hamburger seasoning is a savoury blend intended to flavour burger patties before cooking. This American-style version combines salt, MSG, black pepper and garlic powder, making a straightforward mix with a salty, peppery taste.

It takes only a few minutes to prepare, and the same blend can also season chips or add savoury flavour to salads.

Nutrition and macros by portion

The nutrition label shows one serving as written: 1 calories, 0g protein, 0g carbs, 0g fat.

The reported nutrition per serving is very low, with no protein or fat and a small amount of carbohydrate. This blend is used in small quantities, while a burger's main macros come from the patty and its bread; add salad or vegetables to round out the plate.

Choosing the ingredients

Salt: it provides the main seasoning, so measure it carefully and adjust how much you use on each patty to suit your taste.

MSG: this adds a savoury note to the blend. It is a distinct ingredient, not a substitute for the salt in the recipe.

Black pepper and garlic powder: these round out the seasoning with peppery warmth and a gentle garlic flavour.

Mixing evenly

Combine all four ingredients in a jar or resealable bag, then shake or stir until they look evenly distributed. Breaking up any small clumps helps each pinch contain a balanced mix.

Seasoning burgers

Sprinkle the blend over the patties shortly before cooking, distributing it across the surface. The recipe does not specify an amount per burger, so start with a light coating and adjust to taste.

Other ways to use it

Chips: add a little seasoning while they are hot so it clings to the surface.

Salads: use a small pinch as a savoury accent, tasting as you go because the blend contains salt.

Other dishes: it can be used wherever a peppery, garlicky savoury seasoning suits the food.

Serving the meal

Use the blend to season a burger and serve it with a salad or chips for a simple meal. Since the seasoning is salty, keep the amount modest if other parts of the plate are already well seasoned.

Recipe notes & tips

• Shake the container before each use to redistribute the ingredients.
• Taste the seasoning on a small piece of cooked burger before using more.
• Sprinkle it evenly over the patty rather than leaving concentrated patches.
• Use a dry spoon to keep moisture out of the stored blend.
• Label the container with its name so it is easy to identify.

Variations

• Extra pepper: increase the black pepper for a sharper, more peppery blend.
• More garlic: add a little extra garlic powder for a stronger garlic note.
• Herb accent: mix in dried herbs if you want a more aromatic seasoning.
• Chilli warmth: add a pinch of chilli powder for gentle heat.
• Lower salt: reduce the salt and season each burger to taste.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Uneven mixing: shake or stir thoroughly so each pinch has a consistent balance.
• Using too much: start with a light sprinkle, as the blend is salt-forward.
• Seasoning by eye alone: measure the ingredients to keep the batch balanced.
• Storing it damp: use a dry container and spoon to prevent clumping.
• Forgetting to taste: try a small cooked sample before adding more seasoning to the batch.

How to store

Store the blend in a tightly covered container in a cool place, as directed in the recipe. Keep moisture out and use it while its aroma and flavour remain fresh.

Frequently asked questions