Joanna Gaines Burgers and Fries Recipe (Easy Homemade Family Favorite)

Print

joanna gaines burgers and fries recipe is more than just a delicious meal it’s a comfort food tradition inspired by Joanna’s cozy family gatherings and her Magnolia Table cooking show. Featuring juicy smash-style burgers, sweet-and-spicy Drip Jam, and perfectly crisp crinkle-cut fries, this recipe brings bold flavor and heart to every bite. Whether you’re a longtime fan of her cooking or just craving a new dinner idea, this dish captures everything we love about home-style meals with a touch of Southern charm. Let’s dive into the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and the story behind this standout recipe.

in this recipes

in this recipes

The Tradition of Joanna Gaines’ Burgers and Fries

I still remember the first time I saw Joanna Gaines assemble her famous burger on Magnolia Table. The moment she drizzled that glossy, spicy-sweet Drip Jam over a perfectly melted Gruyère cheese patty it was love at first bite. This joanna gaines burgers and fries recipe isn’t just about food it’s a family memory, a cozy snapshot of Sundays at Magnolia, and, for me, a tribute to my grandma’s instinctive cooking spirit.

Many fans call these the Gaines Brothers Burgers a nod to the brothers who inspired the original recipe shared on her cooking show. She blends ground beef with a pinch of seasoning, smashes the patties on a hot grill, and layers arugula, tomato, and that iconic jam on buttery brioche buns. Each element complements the next, creating a juicy, bold burger that feels both elevated and homey.

What sets it apart is the Drip Jam. Whether you go with the jalapeño version for some heat or bacon‑tomato for smoky sweetness, you can taste the flavor balance. The jam seeps into the burger, enhancing every bite. Jo’s use of high-quality ingredients like brioche buns, arugula instead of iceberg, and Gruyère instead of plain cheddar makes it feel special. The fries are key too: crinkle‑cut potatoes, soaked, seasoned generously, and crisped to golden perfection. These aren’t ordinary fries they’re Magnolia‑style comfort on a plate.

This section shows why the joanna gaines burgers and fries recipe became a modern classic. It’s real flavor, real comfort, and real tradition. If you’d like to explore other hearty side dishes or Joanna’s breakfast recipes, you might enjoy browsing more on the main “Recipes” section or checking her category devoted to “Burgers & Sandwiches” on the site.

Joanna Gaines Burgers and Fries Recipe Overview

What Makes This Burger and Fries Recipe So Special

There are countless burger and fries recipes out there but Joanna Gaines’ burgers and fries recipe stands out for its simplicity, balance, and homemade charm. It’s not loaded with gimmicks or trendy ingredients. Instead, she relies on classic techniques, fresh ingredients, and flavorful seasoning blends that elevate a basic meal into something memorable.

Joanna’s burger patties are all about rich flavor and juicy texture. They’re thick without being overwhelming, seasoned without being salty, and always paired with toppings that complement not compete with the beef. When it comes to fries, it’s the same approach: clean, crispy, and perfectly golden, made with care rather than shortcuts.

There’s also something emotional about her food. Just like her home designs, Joanna brings warmth and personal history into her dishes. Her burger recipe feels like something your grandmother would serve at a backyard picnic only with a Magnolia twist.

Common Flavor Themes in Joanna Gaines’ Cooking Style

Joanna’s cooking isn’t flashy it’s comfort-driven, family-tested, and loaded with southern flavor. You’ll find that most of her dishes, including her burgers and fries, lean into these five themes:

1. Simplicity Over Complexity
   Joanna never overcomplicates things. The flavors in her burgers come from seasoning the meat properly and cooking it just right, not fancy sauces or obscure toppings.
2. Seasonal & Fresh Ingredients
   Whether it’s vine-ripened tomatoes or butter lettuce, she highlights freshness in every part of the dish.
3. Family Traditions
   Many of her meals, especially comfort foods, are inspired by family dinners, Southern cookouts, and cozy nights at home.
4. Balance of Richness and Texture
   Her burger pairs perfectly with crunchy pickles, melty cheese, and toasted buns. The fries? Crisp on the outside, soft in the middle just as they should be.
5. Visual Appeal Meets Functionality
   Joanna’s dishes look just as good as they taste. But they’re also practical and easy enough for any home cook to recreate.

Her approach to this homemade burger and fries recipe is about honoring the basics but executing them with precision and love. It’s not about reinventing the wheel. It’s about making that wheel delicious.

Check out the Pink Salt Trick Recipeif you’re after more cozy comfort foods inspired by family-style meals.

Full Ingredients for Joanna Gaines Burgers

The Perfect Patty: Meat, Seasoning, and Add-ins

At the heart of any good burger is the patty and Joanna Gaines doesn’t cut corners here. Her recipe begins with high-quality ground beef, typically 80/20 (80% lean, 20% fat), which provides the ideal balance of juicy texture and flavor. The fat content is crucial for that slightly crispy sear on the outside and tender center.

Here’s a basic ingredient list for Joanna Gaines’ burger patties: joanna gaines burgers and fries recipe

Ingredient	Amount
Ground beef (80/20)	2 pounds
Kosher salt	1½ teaspoons
Cracked black pepper	1 teaspoon
Garlic powder	½ teaspoon
Onion powder	½ teaspoon
Worcestershire sauce	1 tablespoon

Joanna sometimes adds a light dash of Worcestershire for extra umami. No breadcrumbs, no eggs she keeps it traditional and relies on the beef’s texture and careful seasoning to shine.

Pro Tip: Don’t overwork the meat. Gently shape the patties and press a shallow dent in the center with your thumb to help them cook evenly.

Joanna’s Burger Bun Preferences and Why They Matter

The bun isn’t just a vessel it’s part of the experience. Joanna often opts for soft brioche buns or potato rolls, toasted with butter to add flavor and prevent sogginess.

Why brioche or potato? Both are slightly sweet and buttery, which balances the savory elements of the patty and toppings.

Optional bun add-ons from Magnolia Table-style:

• Light mayo or butter spread before toasting
• A garlic-butter glaze for extra depth

Joanna Gaines Fries Recipe – The Crispy Secret

The Best Potatoes and Cuts for Homemade Fries

When it comes to fries, Joanna Gaines’ fries recipe follows the same principle as her burgers: start with simple, high-quality ingredients and treat them right. For her signature fries, she typically chooses Russet potatoes, known for their starchy texture that crisps beautifully when cooked.

Here’s what you’ll need for the fries: joanna gaines burgers and fries recipe

Ingredient	Details
Russet potatoes	3 to 4 large, scrubbed & peeled
Sea salt	To taste
Vegetable oil	For frying (or baking alternative)
Optional: paprika, garlic powder	For seasoning kick

Cut Style: Joanna goes for thin to medium-thick strips, about ¼ inch. This thickness ensures the perfect crisp edge with a soft center. Avoid thick steak fries they won’t give you that signature crunch Magnolia recipes are known for.

Soaking Tip: After cutting, she soaks the fries in cold water for 30 minutes to an hour. This removes excess starch and ensures a better crisp when frying or baking.

Frying vs. Baking: What Joanna Recommends

Joanna Gaines’ fries recipe offers flexibility: you can fry them the classic way or bake them for a lighter touch. joanna gaines burgers and fries recipe

For Perfect Fried Fries: joanna gaines burgers and fries recipe

1. Heat vegetable oil to 350°F in a deep pot or skillet.
2. Fry in small batches until golden (about 3–5 minutes).
3. Drain on paper towels and season immediately.

For Baked Fries: joanna gaines burgers and fries recipe

1. Toss soaked, dried fries in olive oil.
2. Spread evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment.
3. Bake at 425°F for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.
4. Finish with sea salt and a dusting of paprika or herbs.

Baking keeps things healthier, but if you want full crunch and indulgence frying is the Magnolia-approved method.

Optional dipping sauces Joanna loves pairing with her fries:

• Garlic aioli
• Spicy ketchup
• Ranch with cracked pepper

Don’t miss our No Bake Biscoff Cheesecake for another hearty dish that pairs well with fries if you’re planning a multi-course comfort meal.

Cooking Process Step-by-Step joanna gaines burgers and fries recipe

Making the Burgers: Cooking Tips from Magnolia Table

Joanna’s burger cooking process focuses on technique over complexity. Once your patties are seasoned and shaped, here’s how she brings them to perfection:

Cooking Joanna Gaines’ Burger Patties

1. Preheat a Cast Iron Skillet or Grill: Medium-high heat is key. Joanna often uses a cast iron pan for even heat and a great sear.
2. Cook Without Pressing: Place patties in the pan and let them cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes. Don’t press them down you’ll lose those delicious juices.
3. Flip and Finish: Flip and cook for another 3–4 minutes for medium. Add sliced cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese in the final minute and cover to melt.
4. Rest and Build: Let the burgers rest 2 minutes off heat before placing on toasted buns with toppings.

Cooking Style	Cook Time per Side	Final Touches
Skillet	4–5 mins	Add cheese, cover
Grill	3–4 mins	Toast buns, rest meat

Pro Tip: Joanna lightly brushes buns with butter and toasts them on the skillet or grill for 1–2 minutes until golden.

Crispy Fries at Home: Cooking Instructions and Time Table

No burger is complete without the fries. Here’s how to bring Joanna Gaines’ fries recipe to life:

Frying Method (Traditional Magnolia Style)

1. Heat vegetable oil to 350°F in a deep pot.
2. Fry the potatoes in small batches to prevent overcrowding.
3. Cook each batch for about 3–4 minutes, or until they float and turn golden.
4. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate and season immediately.

Baking Method (Healthier Twist) joanna gaines burgers and fries recipe

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Toss fries with olive oil, garlic powder, and a touch of smoked paprika.
3. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. Serve hot with dipping sauces like garlic aioli or Joanna’s favorite, tangy ranch.

joanna gaines burgers and fries recipe

Method	Cook Time	Texture
Frying	3–4 min/batch	Crispy exterior, soft inside
Baking	25–30 minutes	Crispy edges, golden finish

Don’t miss our featured Baked Cottage Cheese Eggs if you’re in the mood to expand your comfort food game.

How to Serve joanna gaines burgers and fries recipe for Guests

Joanna emphasizes the joy of gathering around the table, so presentation matters. Here’s how to bring Magnolia charm to your serving:

• Use wooden trays or rustic cutting boards
• Wrap burgers in wax paper for a vintage diner look
• Serve fries in mini enamel cups or parchment-lined baskets
• Add small dipping bowls with different sauces

Conclusion joanna gaines burgers and fries recipe

There’s no denying the charm of a Joanna Gaines burgers and fries recipe. It’s classic comfort food elevated by thoughtful ingredients and a heartwarming backstory. From perfectly seasoned beef patties and crispy fries to homemade sauces and farmhouse presentation, Joanna proves that simple meals can still feel special.

• Cleveland Clinic – Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar
• Harvard Health – Grapefruit and Metabolism
• PubMed Study – Ginger and Weight Regulation

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)