Burger Battle Royale: Beyond Meat vs. Classic Beef

Beyond Meat vs. Real Beef: The Ultimate Burger Taste Test

Putting plant-based burgers head to head with traditional 80/20 ground chuck reveals surprising insights into flavor, texture, and juiciness. In this editorial taste test, Ryan Maya preps, seasons, and grills both patties side by side—even in a rainstorm—to see which one truly satisfies the classic burger craving.

Why Compare Beyond Meat and Beef?

Beyond Meat promises the flavor, mouthfeel, and protein content of beef without animal ingredients, delivering twenty grams of protein per patty. Yet ground chuck’s familiar juiciness and beefy aroma set a high bar. For anyone debating a switch from meat to meatless, this direct comparison highlights where each patty shines.

Patting Dry and Seasoning

Both patties began by being patted thoroughly dry with paper towels to ensure a solid sear. A simple seasoning blend of kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder was applied evenly to each. By avoiding cheese or specialty toppings, the true characteristics of each patty could speak for themselves.

Grilling in the Rain

Despite steady rainfall, the grill reached a screaming-hot temperature and the first sizzle of each patty was unmistakable. Each side charred for several minutes, developing a crunchy crust. Even under wet conditions, the Beyond Meat patty held its shape and caramelized in much the same way as the beef, demonstrating its suitability for traditional grill techniques.

The Beef First Bite

The ground chuck burger delivered the expected juicy burst and robust beef aroma. Its crust was satisfyingly crispy, while the interior remained tender and pink. A squeeze of ketchup accentuated the nostalgic, classic burger flavor that serves as today’s benchmark.

Tasting the Beyond Meat Burger

The Beyond Meat patty looked remarkably similar to beef, boasting a deep brown exterior and slight pinkness inside. Its flavor offered a mild, slightly sweet note, which paired surprisingly well with ketchup. Though it lacked some of the juiciness of beef and leaned toward a drier bite, it maintained strong beef-like umami and texture.

Final Verdict

Ground chuck still outperforms on sheer juiciness and that unmistakable beef profile. However, Beyond Meat comes remarkably close, making it a viable option for those seeking to reduce meat consumption without sacrificing much in taste or mouthfeel. For carnivores seeking maximum succulence, traditional beef remains unbeatable. For curious eaters or flexitarians, the plant-based alternative delivers a remarkably authentic burger experience.

Conclusion

Both burgers have their place on the grill. Ground chuck delivers an indulgent, classic cheeseburger experience, while Beyond Meat offers a nearly equivalent flavor and texture in a meatless package. By testing both under identical conditions, readers can decide which patty best meets their own taste and dietary goals. Enjoy discovering your champion in this modern burger battle.

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Ryan Maya is the creator and voice of RyanMayaCooks, where he demystifies grilling and comfort-food classics with approachable, step-by-step techniques. A passionate home cook and barbecue enthusiast, he specializes in teaching readers how to achieve restaurant-quality results—whether it’s mastering a perfect Wagyu skirt steak or testing the latest plant-based patties—using simple tools and straightforward methods.

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