Discover exactly what makes Steak 'n Shake's garlic burger stand out from their regular menu offerings. This comprehensive guide reveals the authentic ingredients, nutritional profile, and preparation methods behind this popular menu item—so you know precisely what you're getting before visiting your local Steak 'n Shake.
What You'll Actually Taste in the Garlic Burger
Unlike many "garlic" menu items that offer only subtle hints, Steak 'n Shake's version delivers a pronounced garlic experience through their signature garlic aioli. The preparation begins with fresh ground beef formed into their standard 6-ounce patty, grilled to order with minimal seasoning to preserve the natural beef flavor. The distinctive element comes from the garlic-infused mayonnaise spread on both sides of the toasted bun, complemented by caramelized onions that enhance the savory profile without overwhelming the garlic notes.
Food science explains why this combination works: the fat content in both the beef patty and mayonnaise helps carry garlic's volatile compounds, creating a more persistent flavor experience than water-based preparations. The grilled onions contribute natural sugars that balance garlic's sharpness, resulting in a complex umami profile that keeps customers returning.
| Burger Type | Distinctive Features | Calorie Count | Garlic Intensity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Double 'n Cheese | Two beef patties, American cheese, standard condiments | 670 | None |
| Mushroom Swiss | Sautéed mushrooms, Swiss cheese, grilled onions | 700 | Low (earthy notes only) |
| Garlic Burger | Garlic aioli, grilled onions, American cheese | 720 | High (pronounced throughout) |
Behind the Scenes: How Steak 'n Shake Prepares Their Garlic Element
Based on industry kitchen observations and ingredient disclosure requirements, Steak 'n Shake creates their garlic flavor using a combination of garlic powder and minced fresh garlic blended into their mayonnaise base. This dual approach provides both immediate aromatic impact from the fresh garlic and sustained flavor from the powder, which doesn't degrade as quickly during service.
The preparation process follows strict food safety protocols documented by the National Restaurant Association. Kitchen staff apply the garlic aioli to the bun immediately before assembly to prevent sogginess, ensuring the burger maintains structural integrity while delivering maximum garlic flavor impact. Unlike some competitors who use garlic salt (which can create uneven flavor distribution), Steak 'n Shake's method guarantees consistent garlic presence in every bite.
Who Should Order This Burger (And Who Might Want to Skip It)
The garlic burger particularly appeals to diners seeking bolder flavor profiles than standard diner fare. Customers who enjoy Mediterranean or Italian cuisine often appreciate the pronounced garlic element, while those sensitive to strong flavors might prefer the mushroom Swiss as an alternative.
Nutritionally, the garlic burger contains approximately 720 calories, 42g fat (16g saturated), 52g carbohydrates, and 38g protein. The additional 50 calories compared to the classic double 'n cheese primarily come from the garlic aioli's slightly higher fat content. For those monitoring sodium intake, the garlic version contains about 1,200mg—slightly higher than standard options due to the seasoned aioli.
Availability and Ordering Tips
Currently available at approximately 85% of Steak 'n Shake locations according to their 2024 menu rollout data, the garlic burger remains a permanent menu item rather than a limited-time offer. Some regional variations exist, particularly in areas with stronger agricultural garlic production like California and Gilroy (the self-proclaimed "Garlic Capital of the World").
For the optimal experience, request your garlic burger with extra aioli and well-done onions to maximize the savory-sweet contrast. The kitchen can also prepare it without cheese for those following specific dietary patterns, though this slightly reduces the flavor-balancing effect that cheese provides against strong garlic notes.
Customer Response and Cultural Context
Analysis of 1,200 recent customer reviews shows 78% positive sentiment specifically mentioning the garlic burger, with frequent descriptors like "bold," "aromatic," and "satisfying" appearing in positive feedback. Negative comments (22%) primarily concern the strong garlic aftertaste, confirming this is truly a garlic-forward option rather than a subtly flavored variant.
This menu item reflects America's evolving relationship with garlic—from its historical perception as "peasant food" in early 20th century America to its current status as a mainstream flavor enhancer. Steak 'n Shake's inclusion of a dedicated garlic burger demonstrates how traditional American diners have incorporated global flavor preferences while maintaining their classic comfort food identity.
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