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–+ servings

Classic American Cheeseburger

A juicy classic American cheeseburger with a browned beef patty, melted cheddar, toasted bun, crisp toppings, and oven fries.
Servings 4 burgers
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes

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
US Customary - Metric

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.

Nutrition

Calories: 820kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 43gFat: 50gSaturated Fat: 17gCholesterol: 135mgSodium: 1180mgFiber: 5gSugar: 8g
Calories: 820kcal
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Burger, Cheeseburger, Oven Fries