The History Behind This Recipe

The hamburger’s American story is a matter of friendly rivalry — from the Hamburg steak served to German immigrants in the 1800s to the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair, where one story says a harried cook slapped a hot patty between two slices of bread. What is certain: the cheeseburger became the emblem of the American diner, and a great one needs nothing more than a juicy patty, good cheese, and a toasted bun.

Ingredients (4 servings)

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef, 80/20
• 4 hamburger buns, toasted
• 4 slices American cheese (or cheddar)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp butter, melted (for buns)
• Lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, ketchup and mustard, to serve

Instructions

1. Divide the beef into 4 equal portions and shape into loose patties slightly wider than the buns (they shrink as they cook). Press a shallow dimple in the center of each.
2. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill over high heat. Cook the patties 3–4 minutes per side for medium, without pressing down.
4. Lay a slice of cheese on each patty in the last minute of cooking and cover to melt.
5. Brush the cut sides of the buns with butter and toast them in the skillet until golden.
6. Assemble: bottom bun, patty, then lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and your favorite condiments. Top bun on, serve hot.

Tips & Variations

• Don’t overwork the meat — loose patties stay tender and juicy.
• The center dimple keeps patties flat instead of puffing up into balls.
• Let the patties rest 2–3 minutes before assembling so the juices settle.

Print Recipe

Family Favorite

The Ultimate Classic American Cheeseburger

Author: Cooking Method: Grilling Cuisine: American Courses: Dinner, Lunch Recipe Keys: C Classic C Comfort Food

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 10 mins Rest Time 3 mins Total Time 23 mins

Servings: 4 Estimated Cost: $ 12 Calories: 540

Best Season: All Year

Description

A truly great cheeseburger doesn't need anything fancy — just a well-seasoned, juicy patty, melty cheese, and a soft toasted bun. Simple ingredients, a hot pan, and a few key techniques come together for the perfect classic American cheeseburger.

Ingredients:

Servings

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef, 80/20
• 4 hamburger buns, toasted
• 4 slices American cheese (or cheddar)
• ¹⁄₂ tsp salt
• ¹⁄₂ tsp black pepper
• ¹⁄₂ tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp butter, melted (for buns)
• Lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, ketchup and mustard, to serve

Instructions

1. Divide the beef into 4 equal portions and shape into loose patties slightly wider than the buns (they shrink as they cook). Press a shallow dimple in the center of each.
2. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill over high heat. Cook the patties 3–4 minutes per side for medium, without pressing down.
4. Lay a slice of cheese on each patty in the last minute of cooking and cover to melt.
5. Brush the cut sides of the buns with butter and toast them in the skillet until golden.
6. Assemble: bottom bun, patty, then lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and your favorite condiments. Top bun on, serve hot.

Note

Avoid pressing down on the patties while they cook — this squeezes out the juices. Mixing a splash of Worcestershire sauce into the beef adds extra flavor, and smoked gouda or pepper jack make a great twist on the classic cheddar.

Keywords: Juicy, Classic, Quick