Here’s a delightful and easy-to-follow recipe for crafting the perfect cheeseburger, sure to be a hit at your next cookout or family dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat for juiciness)
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp. melted butter
- 3 slices of cheese (American, Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or smoked gouda)
- 3 hamburger buns
- 1 large tomato, thinly sliced
- Iceberg lettuce
- Minced white onion
Instructions:
- Patty Preparation: Shape the ground beef into three patties, each slightly larger than your hamburger buns (about 1″ wider). This accounts for shrinkage during cooking. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Press a shallow indent into the center of each patty using your thumb – this helps them maintain shape and cook evenly.
- Grilling Method: Preheat your grill or grill pan to high heat. Place the patties on the grill, cooking for 6 minutes until a crust forms and they’re no longer pink inside. Flip the patties, brush each with melted butter, and cook for another 3 minutes. Add a slice of cheese to each patty and continue grilling to your preferred doneness – about 3 more minutes for a medium cook.
- Skillet Method: If you’re cooking indoors, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 6 minutes until they develop a crust and are no longer pink. Flip them, brush with melted butter, and add cheese after 3 minutes. Continue cooking to your desired level of doneness.
- Assembling the Burger: Place each cooked patty on a bun and add your favorite toppings – tomato slices, lettuce, and minced onion are classic choices. Serve immediately and enjoy!
This recipe is a fantastic base for any burger creation. Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors or like to experiment with different toppings and cheeses, these tips will ensure a juicy, flavorful burger every time. Remember, the key to a great burger is in the quality of the beef and the seasoning – so don’t hold back on the salt and pepper!