How To Build A Burger Board

Jun 9, 2025

Burger boards are having a moment—and it’s easy to see why.

They bring together everything we love about summer dining: great food, relaxed vibes and the kind of presentation that turns even a casual cookout into something special. Think build-your-own burgers, arranged on a beautiful board, with plenty of burger toppings, sides and sauces for guests to mix and match.

It’s a simple idea that feels just a little more thoughtful—and that’s what makes it such a standout for summer hosting. Whether you’re planning a backyard hangout or a festive Fourth of July gathering, here’s how to put together a burger board that’s both practical and photo-worthy.

From grill to board to table, make it unforgettable. Browse our curated outdoor collection for serveware, grill tools, and stylish hosting pieces that turn every cookout into an experience.

Shop Our Outdoor Dining Essentials

Step 1: Start with the Right Foundation

The board sets the tone—but it doesn’t have to be a single, oversized platter. In fact, spreading things out across a few boards or serveware items can make the setup feel more approachable and help guests find what they need. Try grouping by theme: buns and patties on one, toppings on another, sauces and sides on a third.

You can use whatever you have on hand—a wooden serving board, a baking sheet lined with parchment, a mix of ceramic and slate platters. For a relaxed setup, build right on your outdoor table with a sheet of parchment paper. Want something more polished? Layer in natural textures like olivewood utensils, small ceramic bowls or linen napkins for an elevated touch.

Pro tip: Set everything up before you start grilling so you’re free to enjoy the moment once guests arrive.

Step 2: Add The Essentials

At the heart of any great burger board are the building blocks: buns and patties. These are the center of the meal, so it’s worth offering a few thoughtful options that let guests create their perfect hamburger—whether that’s stacked high with all the fixings or kept simple and classic.

Buns: Offer a mix to suit every guest—brioche, pretzel, potato rolls and butter lettuce for bun-free options.
Patties: Cook up a few different types, like classic beef, turkey, veggie burgers or even sliders so guests can sample more than one combo.

Pro tip: Arrange them on a warm tray or shallow pan and keep them covered until it’s time to serve.

Step 3: Arrange the Toppings

This is where the fun (and flavor) really kicks in. Style your toppings in small bowls or fan them out directly on the board for a colorful, inviting look.

Cheese: Consider a variety, like sharp cheddar, creamy Swiss, pepper jack or even blue cheese crumbles.
Veggies: Add everyday favorites like tomato slices, red onion and pickles, avocado, grilled mushrooms and crispy lettuce.
Extras: Think specialty burger additions like bacon, jalapeños, pineapple rings, fried onions or even sautéed peppers.

Pro tip: Cluster items in mini groupings to make the board feel abundant and accessible, and tuck in a few fresh herb sprigs to bring everything together visually.

Step 4: Round It Out with Sauces, Sides, and Little Touches

No burger board is complete without a generous lineup of sauces and a few simple sides. These finishing touches don’t just round out the meal—they add color, texture and that help-yourself feel that makes a spread feel full and festive.

Serve condiments in small ramekins, jars or dip bowls with mini spoons or spreaders to keep things neat and easy to access. You can group them near the toppings or give them their own space if you’re using multiple boards.

Condiments: Think basics like ketchup, mustard and mayo, or extras like BBQ sauce, garlic aioli and chipotle ranch.
Sides: Try corn on the cob, kettle chips, coleslaw or watermelon wedges.

Pro tip: Set out a dedicated spoon or spreader for each sauce—people are more likely to sample when it’s easy and mess-free.

Step 5: Style It for the Outdoors

A great burger board isn’t just about what’s on the table—it’s how you bring it all together. When you’re hosting outdoors, a little thoughtfulness goes a long way toward making the setup feel relaxed, welcoming and pulled-together.

Choose a spot with plenty of space for guests to gather and build their burgers comfortably. If it’s a sunny day, set up in partial shade or under an umbrella to help keep ingredients fresh. Layer your board with natural textures—wood, ceramic, linen—to create visual warmth and tie the whole table together. And don’t forget the finishing touches that make outdoor hosting feel effortless but elevated.

For a breezy setup that’s both stylish and practical:

Use mini tongs or serving forks to keep things easy and clean.
Set out small plates or trays for guests to build their own burgers.
Have cloth napkins or wipes handy—this is meant to be a little messy in the best way.
Keep drinks chilled in a serving tub nearby with sparkling water, wine or seasonal cocktails.
Set up a drink dispenser or pitchers filled with lemonade, iced tea or a signature batched cocktail for easy refills and a visual focal point.
Add a garnish tray with lemon wedges, cucumber slices or herb sprigs to let guests customize their drinks.

Pro tip: Add a few simple burger suggestions on a card—like a “spicy stack” or “classic combo”—to spark inspiration.

Bonus: Burger Recipes Worth Grilling

Want to take your board to the next level? Add a few signature patties based on these flavorful burger recipes—perfect for prepping ahead or inspiring new combinations:

From grill to board to table, make it unforgettable. Browse our curated outdoor collection for serveware, grill tools, and stylish hosting pieces that turn every cookout into an experience.

Shop Our Outdoor Dining Essentials