Photo credit: Recipes From A Pantry.
If you ask me, the best burgers are the ones that require extra napkins. These 30 burger recipes bring the perfect mix of juicy patties, bold toppings, and sauces that aren’t afraid to drip a little. Whether you’re cooking indoors or firing up the grill, there’s something here to satisfy every kind of burger craving. They’re fun to make, even more fun to eat, and way better than drive-thru options.
Buffalo Chicken
Photo credit: Drizzle Me Skinny.
Buffalo Chicken burgers bring heat and tang in every bite, especially once that sauce starts dripping. This one brings the kind of hands-on eating that calls for a napkin or two. It’s perfect for casual dinners, cookouts, or game-day spreads. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s also easy to pull together with simple ingredients. The bold flavor and saucy finish make this a messy favorite for anyone who likes burgers with a little kick.
Get the Recipe Here: Buffalo Chicken
Pizza Stuffed Burgers
Photo credit: Drizzle Me Skinny.
Pizza Stuffed Burgers load the inside with sauce and melty cheese, so every bite gets a little messy—in the best way. This one brings together two comfort food favorites in one handheld dinner. You’ll want to keep napkins nearby because things will get gooey fast. They’re great for a family dinner or casual weekend meal. These burgers are exactly what this list is about—fun, filling, and not meant to be neat.
Get the Recipe Here: Pizza Stuffed Burgers
Buffalo Chicken Burgers
Photo credit: Drizzle Me Skinny.
Buffalo Chicken Burgers are juicy, spicy, and made for people who don’t mind a little sauce on their hands. They work well on the grill or stovetop and can be served up in under 30 minutes. The flavor hits hard, and the toppings can be as bold as you want. Great for game day or any casual night, these burgers hold nothing back. This is one of those recipes that’s supposed to get a little messy.
Get the Recipe Here: Buffalo Chicken Burgers
Pork Burgers
Photo credit: Drizzle Me Skinny.
These pork burgers keep things simple but still manage to be full of flavor and juicy enough to drip down your hands. They’re a fast, easy option for weeknights and can be customized with whatever toppings you have. The pork stays tender and works well with bold condiments. Whether on a toasted bun or straight off the grill, these burgers hit the spot. They’re a solid choice for anyone craving a burger that doesn’t play it clean.
Get the Recipe Here: Pork Burgers
Greek Turkey Burgers
Photo credit: Drizzle Me Skinny.
Greek Turkey Burgers pack in herbs, crumbles of feta, and plenty of moisture, making them anything but dry or boring. They’re quick to cook and go well with creamy sauces or chopped veggies that tend to spill over a little. These burgers offer a fun twist without being fussy. Great for family dinners or summer cookouts, they hold up well under a pile of toppings. It’s a solid pick when you’re okay with a little extra mess on the plate.
Get the Recipe Here: Greek Turkey Burgers
Spinach and Asiago Beef Burgers
Photo credit: Drizzle Me Skinny.
Spinach and Asiago Beef Burgers come with a punch of cheesy flavor and just enough greens to balance things out. The melted cheese gets everywhere—in a good way. They’re done in under 30 minutes and hold their shape whether grilled or pan-seared. These are great for anyone looking for a rich, filling burger that doesn’t stay tidy. This one belongs on a list where drippy, cheesy burgers are the goal.
Get the Recipe Here: Spinach and Asiago Beef Burgers
Turkey Burgers
Photo credit: Drizzle Me Skinny.
These turkey burgers are anything but bland, thanks to juicy meat and toppings that pile high. They’re simple to prep, cook fast, and leave just enough mess to remind you you’re eating a real burger. A little sauce or extra veggies on top only adds to the flavor. These are great for meal prep or casual backyard dinners. They’re proof that lighter burgers can still get messy in the best way.
Get the Recipe Here: Turkey Burgers
Air Fryer Turkey Burgers
Photo credit: Drizzle Me Skinny.
Air Fryer Turkey Burgers are quick, juicy, and come out perfectly browned with minimal cleanup. Add toppings like pickles, onions, or melted cheese and you’ve got a burger that’s hard to keep neat. They’re ready in about 20 minutes, making them perfect for weeknights. You can dress them up or down, depending on what’s in your fridge. This one is built for mess-friendly dinners that hit the spot.
Get the Recipe Here: Air Fryer Turkey Burgers
Chipotle and Lime Chicken Burgers
Photo credit: Drizzle Me Skinny.
Chipotle and Lime Chicken Burgers bring smoky heat and a fresh kick of citrus to every bite. The sauce tends to run, which makes them a little messy—but that’s the point. These are easy to grill or sear, and cook quickly for busy nights. They’re great with slaw or avocado piled on top. This recipe checks the box for bold burgers that don’t need to be neat to be good.
Get the Recipe Here: Chipotle and Lime Chicken Burgers
Cracked Chicken Burgers
Photo credit: Drizzle Me Skinny.
Cracked Chicken Burgers are packed with shredded cheese, bacon bits, and ranch flavor, making them one of the messier options on the list. Every bite is loaded, and they’re the kind of burger you need two hands to handle. You can throw them together quickly for weeknights or casual get-togethers. The cheese melts into the patty and onto the plate. This one proves that flavor sometimes means things get a little sloppy.
Get the Recipe Here: Cracked Chicken Burgers
Blackstone Smash Burgers
Photo credit: Drizzle Me Skinny.
Blackstone Smash Burgers crisp up around the edges but stay juicy in the center, which means they’re just as messy as they are quick to cook. The thin patties stack well and soak up every bit of cheese and sauce. These are done fast and work great for a crowd. A good smash burger always comes with drips, and that’s what makes it good. This one fits the theme perfectly.
Get the Recipe Here: Blackstone Smash Burgers
Chicken Burger
Photo credit: Drizzle Me Skinny.
A basic Chicken Burger doesn’t have to be boring, especially when paired with toppings that melt, drip, or crunch. These cook quickly and stay juicy, making them a smart option for casual meals. You can load them up with slaw, avocado, or sauce—whatever makes it worth the napkins. It’s easy to keep these in regular dinner rotation. This one’s a great example of how chicken can still be part of a messy burger night.
Get the Recipe Here: Chicken Burger
Cheeseburger with Pickled Jalapenos
Photo credit: Chili To Choc.
Cheeseburgers with Pickled Jalapenos bring the heat and the cheese, which usually means things are going to get a little wild. Melty toppings, spice, and a soft bun mean you’re not walking away clean. These come together fast and pack plenty of flavor in each bite. Great for cookouts or late-night dinners, they don’t need much else to shine. This one lands squarely in the camp of burgers that aren’t meant to be tidy.
Get the Recipe Here: Cheeseburger with Pickled Jalapenos
Pork and Apple Burgers
Photo credit: Krumpli.
Pork and Apple Burgers mix sweet and savory flavors with juicy patties that don’t dry out on the grill. A touch of sauce or a slice of cheese only makes them better, even if it runs a bit. They’re ready in under 30 minutes and feel just right for fall dinners or backyard grilling. The apple adds moisture while keeping things interesting. It’s a burger that’s better when things get a little messy.
Get the Recipe Here: Pork and Apple Burgers
Venison Burgers
Photo credit: Krumpli.
Venison Burgers offer bold, hearty flavor with a rich texture that holds up under toppings. They’re great on the grill and take well to sauces that might drip down your hands. These are ideal for when you want something a little different but still easy to make. Serve with sharp cheese or a fried egg for extra mess. This burger makes it clear that neatness isn’t the goal here.
Get the Recipe Here: Venison Burgers
Ultimate Breakfast Burger
Photo credit: Cooked & Loved.
The Ultimate Breakfast Burger brings bacon, egg, and melted cheese together in one messy, two-hand meal. It’s packed full of breakfast favorites that tend to slide and drip with every bite. These burgers are perfect for lazy weekends or breakfast-for-dinner nights. They’re quick to make and fill you up fast. With yolk running down the sides and toppings piled high, this one is made for the mess.
Get the Recipe Here: Ultimate Breakfast Burger
Juicy Smoked Burgers
Photo credit: Ask Chef Dennis.
Juicy Smoked Burgers deliver deep flavor with a smoky finish that drips with every bite. They’re made for the grill and hold up well under cheese, sauce, or anything you throw on top. These are best served fresh, when the juices are still running and the burger barely holds together. Quick enough for a weeknight but bold enough for a weekend barbecue, they bring the right kind of mess. This recipe checks all the boxes for a burger that’s not afraid to get a little sloppy.
Get the Recipe Here: Juicy Smoked Burgers
Mushroom Swiss Smash Burger
Photo credit: Ask Chef Dennis.
Mushroom Swiss Smash Burgers pack cheesy, melty goodness with caramelized mushrooms that spill out with every bite. These thin patties crisp at the edges and soak up every bit of sauce. It’s a fast-cooking option that’s still loaded with flavor. Ideal for casual dinners, these burgers are built to be eaten with both hands. The juicy center and slippery toppings land it right where messy burgers belong.
Get the Recipe Here: Mushroom Swiss Smash Burger
Spinach Feta Chicken Burgers
Photo credit: Fresh Apron.
Spinach Feta Chicken Burgers balance savory cheese and greens with a patty that stays moist and full of flavor. The crumbled feta and any sauces you add tend to slide out, making these a little less than neat. They’re easy to pull together for a weeknight meal or backyard grill session. These burgers hold up well with bold toppings and soft buns. Their messy charm fits perfectly with this kind of burger lineup.
Get the Recipe Here: Spinach Feta Chicken Burgers
Bacon Blue Cheese Burger
Photo credit: Always From Scratch.
Bacon Blue Cheese Burgers bring strong flavors and textures that usually end up falling out of the bun. The crumbled cheese, crispy bacon, and tangy condiments come together in a way that’s never clean—and that’s the point. These burgers are rich and bold, best served fresh and hot. Great for casual gatherings or weekend dinners, they take under 30 minutes to make. The crumbles and drips make this one a mess you won’t mind.
Get the Recipe Here: Bacon Blue Cheese Burger
Cast Iron Skillet Burgers
Photo Credit: Dutch Oven Daddy.
Cast Iron Skillet Burgers get a crispy sear and juicy center that’s just begging for melted cheese and dripping sauces. They cook quickly and are easy to make year-round, no grill required. The soft buns and toppings turn each bite into a bit of a cleanup, but that’s what makes them so good. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, they come together fast with pantry staples. These burgers fit right in when you’re after big flavor and a little chaos.
Get the Recipe Here: Cast Iron Skillet Burgers
Air Fryer Cheeseburger
Photo credit: Thrive at Home.
Air Fryer Cheeseburgers keep things simple but still bring the juicy bite you expect from a good burger. Melty cheese and any toppings you add tend to run off the sides, especially when served hot. They’re ready in under 20 minutes, making them great for busy nights. The patties stay moist and full of flavor without needing much work. This burger proves you don’t need a grill to end up with a little mess on your hands.
Get the Recipe Here: Air Fryer Cheeseburger
Greek Chicken Burgers
Photo credit: Hungry Hobby.
Greek Chicken Burgers come packed with herbs, feta, and toppings that are better when things aren’t too neat. The sauce and crumbles have a way of falling out, making this a fork-nearby kind of meal. These cook quickly and work well for lunch or dinner. Great for mixing things up without a ton of effort. With all that flavor and a bit of extra cleanup, they fit this list perfectly.
Get the Recipe Here: Greek Chicken Burgers
Jucy Lucy Recipe
Photo credit: Chicken Fried Kitchen.
The Jucy Lucy hides cheese inside the burger patty, which means it oozes out the second you take a bite. It’s gooey, rich, and hard to eat without getting a little messy. These are a fun option for family dinners or laid-back get-togethers. Ready in under 30 minutes, they’re worth the extra napkin. This one is exactly the kind of burger that belongs on a list made for drips and spills.
Get the Recipe Here: Jucy Lucy Recipe
Cheeseburger Sliders
Photo credit: The Cookin Chicks.
Easy Cheeseburger Sliders come together fast and disappear even faster, thanks to soft buns and melted cheese. They’re small but still pack in the kind of mess that comes with stacked toppings and buttery buns. These work well for parties, game nights, or even a casual dinner. You can bake them all at once and serve them right from the pan. The cheese pull alone earns them a spot in any messy burger roundup.
Get the Recipe Here: Cheeseburger Sliders
Best Ever Juicy Burgers
Photo credit: The Cookin Chicks.
These burgers live up to the name with a juicy bite that leaks onto your plate every time. The patties are thick and tender, built to carry toppings without going dry. They’re easy to prep and work well for grilling or pan-cooking. Perfect for a backyard cookout or a simple dinner, they hold nothing back. A burger this juicy is always going to get a little messy, and that’s exactly why it’s so good.
Get the Recipe Here: Best Ever Juicy Burgers
Peanut Butter Bacon Burger
Photo credit: Homemade on a Weeknight.
The Peanut Butter Bacon Burger is bold, rich, and the kind of thing you eat with two hands and no shame. Creamy peanut butter melts into the burger, mixing with crispy bacon for a combo that’s anything but tidy. It’s a unique pick that’s great for cookouts or late-night meals. Done in under 30 minutes, it brings sweet, salty, and savory all at once. This is the kind of burger that’s made to be a little over the top.
Get the Recipe Here: Peanut Butter Bacon Burger
Smoked Pineapple Teriyaki Burgers
Photo credit: Homemade on a Weeknight.
Smoked Pineapple Teriyaki Burgers bring sweet, sticky, and smoky together in a way that gets on your hands fast. The grilled pineapple and teriyaki glaze run down the sides, making napkins a must. These are great for summer cookouts or themed burger nights. Quick to make and big on flavor, they turn dinner into something fun. This burger definitely belongs in a list that embraces the mess.
Get the Recipe Here: Smoked Pineapple Teriyaki Burgers
Air Fryer Veggie Burgers
Photo credit: Recipes From A Pantry.
Air Fryer Veggie Burgers are easy to make but still give you a soft, flavorful bite that’s perfect for stacking high. Add melty cheese, creamy sauces, or grilled veggies and it gets messy fast. These are quick to prepare and a good option when you want something lighter without losing the fun. Perfect for meatless nights or a simple lunch. Even without meat, this burger has the kind of build that welcomes the mess.
Get the Recipe Here: Air Fryer Veggie Burgers
Spanish Burger with Romesco
Photo credit: The FoodOlic.
Spanish Burgers with Romesco sauce bring smoky peppers, garlic, and a big hit of flavor that spills out with every bite. The sauce drips, the bun softens, and everything melts together in the best way. These are ready fast and make a great dinner when you want something bold. They work well for summer meals or something a little different. This burger proves that bold flavors usually come with a side of mess.
Get the Recipe Here: Spanish Burger with Romesco
