Cheeseburgers are one of the most beloved comfort foods around the world. Whether enjoyed at a backyard barbecue or a cozy dinner at home, this classic meal brings happiness to many. With juicy beef patties, melted cheese, fresh veggies, and a variety of toppings, cheeseburgers are customizable to suit every taste.
Why Make This Recipe
Making cheeseburgers at home allows you to control the quality of ingredients and adjust flavors to your liking. You can choose between single or double patties, pick your favorite cheese, and load up on toppings. Plus, it’s a fun meal to prepare, and it’s perfect for gatherings with family and friends.
How to Make Cheeseburgers
Ingredients
- 600 g / 1.2 lb beef mince (ground beef), at least 20% fat (Note 1 for quality)
- 1.2 kg / 2.4 lb beef mince (ground beef), at least 20% fat (Note 1 for quality)
- 1/8 tsp each salt and pepper PER burger
- 2 – 3 tbsp canola oil
- 4 soft burger buns or rolls, around 10cm/4″ wide (Note 2)
- 4 – 8 slices burger cheese (American or your choice)
- 8 cos/romaine lettuce leaves, torn to size or shredded iceberg
- 2 large tomatoes, cut into eight 7mm/1/4″ slices
- 1 red onion, finely sliced into rings (Note 4)
- 2 large gherkins, finely sliced (Note 5)
- Special Burger Sauce (creamy orangey/pink one, quick no cook)
- Tomato chutney for burgers
- Ketchup
- Mustard
- French fries (and it’s epic!)
Directions
Patties: Start by separating the beef into 4 equal portions, or 8 if you are making double cheeseburgers (which is a great idea!). Gently roll each portion into a ball, then press down to form round patties. Make them slightly larger than your bun to allow for shrinkage (about 12 cm / 4.7″ wide and 1 cm / 0.4″ thick for a 10cm / 4″ burger bun).
Prepare: Gather all your burger ingredients and have them ready. Don’t add salt to the beef until just before cooking, as it can toughen the meat.
Toast buns: Preheat your grill to high. Place the buns cut face up on a tray and toast them for about 3 to 5 minutes until light golden. If you are using a BBQ, place the cut face down on the grill. Set them aside.
Dent the patties: Sprinkle one side of the patties with half the salt and pepper. Flip them over and press a dent into the middle of each patty. This helps prevent the patties from doming during cooking and reduces shrinkage. Sprinkle the dented side with the remaining salt and pepper.
Cook the patties: You can cook the patties on the stove or grill.
Assemble: Once the patties are cooked to your liking, it’s time to assemble your burger. Start with a toasted bun, add the patty, top it with cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, gherkins, and any sauces you desire. Finish with the top bun.
How to Serve Cheeseburgers
Serve your cheeseburgers hot with a side of crispy French fries. You may also provide condiments like ketchup, mustard, and your special burger sauce on the table for guests to add to their taste.
How to Store Cheeseburgers
If you have leftover cooked patties, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop. Raw beef mince should be stored in the refrigerator and used within 1-2 days or frozen for longer storage.
Tips to Make Cheeseburgers
- Use good quality beef with at least 20% fat for juicier patties.
- Do not overwork the meat when forming the patties to keep them tender.
- Experiment with different cheeses and toppings to find your favorite combination.
Variation
For a healthier option, you can use lean ground turkey or plant-based mince. You can also try adding different types of cheeses or toppings like avocado, bacon, or spicy jalapeños.
FAQs
1. How can I tell when my patties are cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For beef, 70°C (160°F) is recommended for safe consumption.
2. Can I make the patties ahead of time?
Yes! You can form the patties and store them in the fridge or freezer until you are ready to cook them.
3. What’s the best way to cook cheeseburgers?
Both grilling and pan-searing work well. Grilling adds a smoky flavor, while pan-searing gives a good crust. Choose what you prefer!
Cheeseburgers
Ingredients
For the Patties
- 600 g beef mince (ground beef), at least 20% fat Note 1 for quality
- ⅛ tsp salt Per burger
- ⅛ tsp pepper Per burger
- 2-3 tbsp canola oil
For Assembly
- 4 pieces soft burger buns or rolls, around 10cm/4″ wide Note 2
- 4-8 slices burger cheese (American or your choice)
- 8 leaves cos/romaine lettuce, torn to size or shredded iceberg
- 2 large tomatoes, cut into eight 7mm/1/4″ slices
- 1 large red onion, finely sliced into rings Note 4
- 2 large gherkins, finely sliced Note 5
Condiments
- Special Burger Sauce (creamy orangey/pink one, quick no cook)
- Tomato chutney for burgers
- Ketchup
- Mustard
Sides
- French fries And it’s epic!
Instructions
Make the Patties
- Start by separating the beef into 4 equal portions, or 8 if you are making double cheeseburgers.
- Gently roll each portion into a ball, then press down to form round patties slightly larger than your bun.
Prepare the Ingredients
- Gather all your burger ingredients and have them ready.
- Don’t add salt to the beef until just before cooking.
Toast the Buns
- Preheat your grill to high and place the buns cut face up on a tray to toast for about 3 to 5 minutes.
Shape the Patties
- Sprinkle one side of the patties with half the salt and pepper, flip them over and press a dent into the middle of each patty.
- Sprinkle the dented side with the remaining salt and pepper.
Cook the Patties
- Cook the patties on the stove or grill as preferred.
Assemble the Burgers
- Once the patties are cooked, assemble your burger starting with a toasted bun, add the patty, top with cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, gherkins, and any sauces.
- Finish with the top bun.
