is krystal burgers real beef

Are Krystal Burgers Really Made with 100% Real Beef?

Krystal restaurants have been serving up their signature small square burgers for over 90 years. With locations across the South this fast food chain is best known for their steamy hot sliders topped with onions, pickles, and mustard. But some customers have questioned what exactly is in those tiny patties. Is it quality beef or mystery meat? Let’s examine if Krystal burgers are really made with 100% real beef.

The Origins and History of Krystal

Krystal was founded in 1932 in Chattanooga, Tennessee by Rody Davenport Jr. and J. Glenn Sherrill. The business partners wanted to provide working-class Americans with an affordable but filling meal during the Great Depression. They opened their first restaurant for just $5,000 and set the burger price at 5 cents.

This was before McDonald’s ever existed. Krystal claims to be the second oldest fast food burger chain after White Castle. Over the decades, Krystal has stuck to its roots while expanding across 10 southern states. The chain now has over 300 locations.

What Goes Into a Krystal Burger?

The main components of a classic Krystal burger are:

• Beef patty
• Steamed bun
• Onions
• Pickles
• Mustard

Let’s look closer at each key ingredient:

Beef Patties – Krystal states their patties are made from 100% American beef with no fillers, additives, or artificial flavors. The fresh beef is ground in-house daily and formed into thin, square patties.

Buns – The signature soft buns are produced from enriched wheat flour, water, yeast, and vegetable oil. No preservatives are used.

Onions – Chopped onions are rehydrated in beef broth for extra flavor.

Pickles – Sliced dill pickles add a tangy crunch.

Mustard – Classic yellow mustard provides a spicy kick.

When Krystal says their burgers are 100% beef, they aren’t misleading customers. The short ingredients list contains no mystery meats, soy fillers, or artificial chemicals.

Commitment to Quality Ingredients Since 1932

Krystal has built its reputation for over 90 years by using quality ingredients like fresh, never-frozen beef. The meat isn’t pre-formed into patties but rather ground in-store daily. The chain has resisted cost-cutting measures like substituting fillers or artificial flavors.

This commitment to tradition keeps fans craving the nostalgic flavor of a genuine Krystal burger. The burgers taste like they did decades ago because the recipe and ingredients remain unchanged. Krystal also prepares the patties on a hot grill and steams the buns to perfection. This consistent process guarantees a delicious burger every visit.

Nutrition Profile of a Krystal Burger

While Krystal burgers are made with uncomplicated, real food ingredients, they are still fast food. Here is the basic nutrition data for an original Krystal burger:

• Calories: 140
• Total fat: 7g
• Carbs: 11g
• Protein: 8g

A single slider supplies protein but is moderately high in fat and sodium. The small size prevents consuming too many calories, but it’s smart to enjoy Krystals in moderation.

Trying Krystal Burgers for Yourself

The best way to experience genuine Krystal burgers is to visit one of their locations in the South. Check their website to find the nearest restaurant. You can also purchase frozen Krystal burgers at grocery stores to cook at home, although they won’t be quite as good as getting them freshly made.

Next time you’re craving a old-fashioned burger, try Krystals and taste their commitment to quality. The juicy flavor will transport you back in time to when a burger was just beef between a bun.

Other Menu Items Beyond Burgers

While famous for sliders, Krystal also serves other comfort foods such as:

• Hot dogs made with a pork and beef blend
• Corn dogs hand-dipped in sweet cornmeal batter
• Crispy chicken tenders and sandwiches
• Breakfast sandwiches with eggs, cheese, and meat
• Fresh-cut french fries and onion rings
• Thick milkshakes

The Verdict: Krystal Burgers Are 100% Real Beef

After examining the ingredients, cooking methods, and company history, Krystal burgers do appear to contain 100% real American beef. No mystery meat, fillers, or artificial flavors are used in making their iconic sliders. Krystal still grinds beef daily in-store too.

The commitment to quality and tradition has allowed this regional chain to thrive for 90 years. Fans keep returning for the nostalgic taste of a genuine Krystal burger just like in the good old days. While not gourmet, these steamy little burgers are satisfying comfort food made right.