Description
These mouthwatering burgers are juicy, flavorful, and simple to prepare. Seasoned perfectly and topped with fresh ingredients, they bring classic American comfort to your table. Perfect for cookouts, family dinners, or whenever you crave a hearty sandwich.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound (450 g) ground beef, 80% lean
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 4 hamburger buns
- 4 slices of cheese (Cheddar, American, or your preference)
- 4 lettuce leaves
- 4 tomato slices
- 4 onion slices (optional)
- Condiments (ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise) to taste
Instructions
- Season the Ground Beef: In a mixing bowl, gently combine ground beef, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
- Shape the Patties: Divide the seasoned meat into 4 equal portions. Shape each into a patty about ¾ inch thick, making a small indent in the center to prevent bulging.
- Preheat Cooking Surface: If grilling, heat the grill to medium-high. If using a stovetop, heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat with a light coating of oil.
- Cook the Patties: Place patties on the hot surface. Cook for about 3–4 minutes per side for medium doneness (internal temperature of about 160°F / 71°C). Adjust timing if you prefer rarer or more well-done burgers.
- Add Cheese (Optional): During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on top of each patty. Cover briefly to help the cheese melt.
- Toast the Buns: Lightly toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a dry pan until golden.
- Assemble the Burgers: Spread condiments on the bun, add lettuce, tomato, onion slices, and the patty. Top with the other half of the bun.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy the burgers hot with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Variations: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based patties to accommodate different diets.
- Tips: Handle the meat gently to prevent dense burgers. Making a slight indentation in the center of each patty helps them cook evenly.
- Allergies: Use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps for a gluten-free option. Skip cheese if lactose intolerant, or use a dairy-free substitute.
- Taste Adjustments: Feel free to add spices like paprika or Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: PT10M
- Cook Time: PT15M
- Category: Main Course, Dinner
- Method: Grilling, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: ~450 kcal per serving
- Sugar: ~4 g per serving
- Sodium: ~600 mg per serving
- Fat: ~25 g per serving
- Saturated Fat: ~9 g per serving
- Unsaturated Fat: ~14 g per serving
- Trans Fat: ~0.5 g per serving
- Carbohydrates: ~32 g per serving
- Fiber: ~2 g per serving
- Protein: ~27 g per serving
- Cholesterol: ~85 mg per serving
Keywords: burgers, burgers recipe, homemade burgers, classic burgers, grilling, easy dinner, American cuisine