The Best Mustard for Grilled Burgers (And How to Use It)

Why Mustard Is the Most Underrated Burger Condiment

Ketchup gets all the glory, but mustard is the secret weapon of serious burger lovers. The right mustard doesn't just add flavor — it cuts through the richness of the beef, brightens every bite, and ties the whole burger together. The question is: which mustard is best for grilled burgers, and how do you use it to maximum effect?

At Stevie Ray's Smokin' Treats, we've spent a lot of time around the grill, and we're here to settle this once and for all.

What Makes a Great Burger Mustard?

The best mustard for grilled burgers needs to do a few things well:

• Hold up to heat — if you're smash-burging or grilling hot, the mustard needs to caramelize, not disappear
• Balance richness — beef fat is delicious, but mustard's acidity keeps each bite from feeling heavy
• Add complexity — a one-dimensional mustard is a missed opportunity
• Complement toppings — from pickles to caramelized onions, mustard should play well with others

The Smash Burger Technique: Mustard on the Patty

One of the best-kept secrets in burger cooking is the mustard smash. Here's how it works:

1. Form a loose ball of 80/20 ground beef (about 3–4 oz)
2. Place it on a screaming-hot cast iron or griddle
3. Smash it flat immediately with a spatula
4. Brush or spread a thin layer of Stevie Ray's Sweet & Spicy Mustard directly on the raw side of the patty
5. Flip once — the mustard side hits the hot surface and caramelizes into the crust

The result? A burger with a deeply savory, slightly tangy crust that you simply can't get any other way. 

Which Stevie Ray's Mustard Is Best for Burgers?

We make several heat levels of mustards, and each brings something different to the burger game:

• Sweet & Spicy Mustard: A surprising choice that works beautifully with caramelized onions, bacon, and Swiss cheese. The sweetness plays off the savory beef in a way that's genuinely addictive.
• Sweet & Xtra Spicy Mustard:  Adds a little more heat.

Beyond the Bun: Other Ways to Use Mustard on Burgers

Don't limit mustard to just the condiment line. Try these approaches:

• Mix into the patty: Add 1 tablespoon of mustard per pound of ground beef before forming patties. It seasons from the inside out.
• Mustard aioli: Blend mustard with mayo, a squeeze of lemon, and a pinch of garlic powder for a creamy, tangy spread.
• Mustard glaze: Brush onto the patty in the last minute of cooking for a glossy, caramelized finish.
• Mustard-marinated onions: Toss sliced onions in mustard and a splash of vinegar, then cook low and slow for a tangy topping.

Pairing Mustard with BBQ Sauce on Burgers

Here's a pro move: use both mustard and BBQ sauce on the same burger. Spread mustard on the bottom bun (it holds up better to meat juices) and BBQ sauce on the top. The combination of tangy mustard and smoky-sweet BBQ sauce creates a flavor profile that's greater than the sum of its parts.

Try Stevie Ray's 2, 4 or 6 Scotch BBQ Sauce with our Sweet & Spicy Mustard for a burger that tastes like it came from a serious smokehouse.

The Bottom Line

The best mustard for grilled burgers is the one that matches your style — but don't sleep on the smash burger technique and don't be afraid to mix mustard into your patties. A quality craft mustard like Stevie Ray's makes a real difference you can taste.

Shop Stevie Ray's Mustards and upgrade your next burger night.