A classic American cheeseburger is all about contrast: a deeply browned beef patty, melting cheddar, a soft toasted bun, and crisp pickles and vegetables. It is simple, familiar, and worth cooking well at home.
This recipe keeps the patties loosely formed and seasons them just before cooking. A hot skillet builds a browned crust while the toppings stay cool and crunchy.
Handle the beef as little as possible and make the center of each patty slightly thinner than the edges. The patties will puff as they cook and finish with an even shape.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with oven fries, coleslaw, potato salad, or a crisp pickle spear. Add mustard, ketchup, mayonnaise, or a quick burger sauce at the table.
Recipe Notes
For food safety, cook ground beef to your preferred safe doneness and use a thermometer if needed. Shape the patties up to a few hours ahead and keep them chilled until cooking.
Classic American Cheeseburger
Equipment
- Rimmed baking sheet
- Large cast-iron skillet or griddle
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Instant-read thermometer
Ingredients
Burger Patties
- 1 1/2 lb 80/20 ground beef
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper freshly ground
- 1 tbsp neutral oil for the skillet
Toppings and Buns
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 whole brioche buns split
- 4 leaves leaf lettuce
- 1 large tomato sliced
- 1/2 medium red onion thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup dill pickle chips
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
Oven Fries
- 1 lb russet potatoes cut into fries
- 1 tbsp neutral oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
Make the fries:
- Heat the oven to 450 F. Rinse the cut potatoes, then dry them very well with a clean towel.
- Toss the potatoes with oil, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Spread them in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, turning once, until golden and crisp.
Shape and cook the patties:
- Divide the beef into four portions and gently shape each into a patty about 3/4 inch thick. Press a shallow dimple into the center of each patty.
- Season both sides with the salt and pepper just before cooking.
- Heat the oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until they reach your preferred doneness.
- Top each patty with a slice of cheddar during the last minute and cover the skillet briefly so the cheese melts.
Toast and assemble:
- Toast the cut sides of the buns in the skillet for 30 to 60 seconds, until lightly golden.
- Spread mayonnaise and ketchup on the buns. Layer lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, the cheeseburger patty, and the top bun.
- Serve immediately with the oven fries.
Notes
- Handle the beef gently so the patties stay tender.
- Shape patties a few hours ahead and refrigerate them until cooking.
- Add extra toppings such as mustard, jalapeños, or caramelized onions if desired.