Classic Cheeseburger: 5

There’s something undeniably comforting about a perfectly crafted cheeseburger. I remember countless summer evenings

A classic cheeseburger with melted cheddar, fresh lettuce, and tomato on a brioche bun.

Classic American Cheeseburger

This recipe guides you through making delicious homemade burgers with juicy patties, melted cheese, and your favorite toppings, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 burgers
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

Patties
  • 1.5 lbs Ground Beef 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio
Buns & Cheese
  • 4 Burger Buns brioche or potato
  • 4 slices Cheese American, cheddar, or provolone
Seasoning
  • Salt to taste
  • Black Pepper to taste
Toppings & Condiments
  • Your Favorite Toppings Lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles
  • Condiments Ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, or special burger sauce
Cooking
  • 1 tablespoon Oil neutral like canola or vegetable

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Cast-iron pan

Method
 

Prepare Patties
  1. Divide ground beef into four equal portions, forming each into a ¾-inch thick patty slightly wider than the bun, and make a small indentation in the center.
  2. Season both sides of the patties generously with salt and black pepper.
Cook Burgers
  1. Heat oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until shimmering, then place patties in the hot pan.
  2. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, 4-5 minutes per side for medium, or 5-6 minutes per side for well-done.
  3. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty, optionally covering the pan for 30 seconds to help melt the cheese.
Prepare Buns & Assemble
  1. Lightly butter the cut sides of the burger buns if desired, then toast them in a dry skillet, toaster oven, or on the hot pan after removing the burgers until golden brown.
  2. Spread desired condiments on the toasted bun halves, place the cheesy patty on the bottom bun, layer with preferred toppings, and crown with the top bun and serve immediately.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the ground beef before forming the patties. Adjust cooking times to your preferred doneness and always use a meat thermometer for accuracy. You can also customize your burger with different cheeses and a variety of fresh toppings to make it your own!

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