While not a lightning rod of conversation like, oh, say, pineapple on pizza, or ketchup on a hot dog, there are plenty of passionate parties on both sides of the “BBQ sauce on a hamburger” debate.
If you are on the oppositional side — believing that the “devil’s ketchup” has no place on a hamburger — this review probably isn’t for you. Nothing I have to say will convince you that it is a fine and just condiment to top your sandwich. If, however, you are staunchly on the “pro” side of the aisle, or are at the very least willing to keep an open mind and “see how things go,” you’ll want to read on.
Though this isn’t the drive-in chain’s first foray into buttered patties — it’s had a garlic butter version on at least a couple of occasions — or its first dance with BBQ sauce on a burger (its “hickory” variety of the sauce is still a customizable addition on the app). It is its first attempt at melding the two.
And so does it work?
In most ways, yes.
I’ve always been a fan of Sonic’s bacon. It feels like it runs a little thicker than most of their competitor’s, and it fits in well on this sandwich, adding some much needed chew. The BBQ sauce is described as a “honey” sauce, and it is, indeed, sweet. Because of the sauce and the “smoky mesquite butter” that tops the patty, you should know that this is a sloppy affair.
Additionally, I’ve always been a fan of Sonic’s American cheese. It melts well and tastes perfectly American. (Though I will say, two slices on a burger this size feels like a bit much; one would likely suffice.) The patty itself is juicy and definitely less dry than most other fast food burgers.
Though the toasted brioche bun isn’t anything special, it held up nicely to the onslaught of liquids. And while I am typically a “take-it-or-leave-it” connoisseur of pickles on a burger, these ones really stood out. Their tart acidity melded beautifully with the sauce’s sweetness, and their crunch added yet another excellent texture to the proceeding.
So what didn’t I like about this burger?
Really, my major complaint was with the lettuce. Quite frankly, I’m not sure lettuce even belongs on this style of burger. Even if you can make an argument that it does, you’re not likely to prove your point with the limp, wet, and warm shrubbery found here. Nor did the grilled onions add much, except to provide an arsenal of more small things to slide out of the burger’s bottom on a flume of butter with each bite. And finally, there wasn’t much of a “smokiness,” either, which, if you’re crowning your burger as “mesquite,” feels like a bit of a miss.
If you’re a BBQ burger fan, I’m confident you’ll like this. Just, you know, hold the lettuce. And maybe the onions. And what if you got a side of onion rings and slapped a couple of those fried halos under the bun? Hey Sonic, give me a call and let’s talk product development.
Purchased Price: $4.99
Rating: 7 out of 10
Nutrition Facts: 690 calories,41 grams of fat, 1 gram of trans fat, 17 gram of saturated fat, 1780 milligrams of sodium, 47 grams of total carbohydrates, 18 gram of total sugars, 3 gram of fiber, and 33 grams of protein.
I’m usually not one to judge people for their food choices, but people who think that BBQ sauce doesn’t belong on a burger are f’ing morons! BBQ sauce on a burger is absolutely AMAZING if done right! The most delicious burger I have ever eaten had BBQ sauce on it, in fact.
The Carl’s Jr Western Bacon Cheeseburger is one of the best fast-food burgers ever.
Thanks for the recommendation. 🙂
Hey, ‘”f’ing moron” here. Call me old school, but when I was a kid you got only two choices, mustard and ketchup…and you were grateful for that!! 🙂
Ugh, mustard on a burger! Or anything, really. I only like hot sweet mustard. I refuse to eat a burger without ketchup, however, unless it already has BBQ sauce on it. Yum! To each his own, but you are really missing out! 😀
Agree with you, and with Wes below. BBQ sauce works well, especially with onion rings, which Carl’s Jr/Hardees often add to a burger.
I may love BBQ burgers, but Sonic has the WORST burgers in the ENTIRE fast food industry! Sure, McDonald’s has really bad burgers, as well, but they do have sandwich’s and other things that are worth buying. Sonic is a MASSIVE disappointment overall, IMHO, except for their all-American dogs, which are good, and their Ocean Water, which is AWESOME! I have no opinion about their ice cream desserts, because I’ve only had the banana split, until the bastards discontinued it.
And see, I actually like Sonic’s patties, so, you know, YMMV I suppose.
There’s nothing wrong with that. Just don’t try and make me eat there, or I’ll kill you. 🙂
Looks so good!!! I’ve honestly never had a sonic burger and have wanted to try their garlic butter one very much. Looks like a good juicy burger.
And I agree about the lettuce on this guy. Saw your pic and was like “What? Why is that there…maybe it’s a mistake.” Definitely has no place here.
Can’t wait to try it. Another BBQ burger that’s a regular for me is Burger King’s Rodeo burger from the value menu, even though it’s usually not on the menu they still will make it.
It is generally understood that Sonic is a restaurant only in the loosest sense of the word, but even that low standard doesn’t excuse that sloppy mess.
Put me solidly into the mustard/ketchup only group. BBQ sauce belongs on ribs/chicken and brisket…period! And don’t get me started on mayo….
I’m totally with you on no Mayo on burgers! I DESPISE IT!!!!!
“Give me mayo on my burger or give me death.” –Me
I’d choose death.
Best response ever, I think I love you Rachel!
@Joe Cool. You’re too kind. 😀
Just tried this and glad I got it half price in the app. I made sure to look at what was on it befor ordering. I do not like spicy food but since the BBQ sacue said honey bbq, which I normally love I figured I would be ok. Got home, took one bite and my mouth was on fire. Tried scraping off the sauce and added ranch dressing and still couldn’t eat it.
Unfortunately I would tell everybody do not buy this Burger it’s not what you think it is. TV makes it look better than it really is I will never waste my money again