The Ultimate Classic Cheeseburger
This recipe delivers a juicy, flavorful cheeseburger with perfectly melted cheese and toasted buns, ready to be customized with your favorite toppings.
Equipment
- Grill (optional)
- Large cast-iron skillet (optional)
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Ground Beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
- 4-6 Hamburger Buns (brioche or sturdy white)
- 4-6 slices American Cheese (or cheddar/provolone)
- Salt (kosher or sea salt) to taste
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil if using skillet
Optional Toppings
- Lettuce leaves
- tomato slices
- onion slices
- pickles
- ketchup
- mustard
- mayonnaise
Instructions
Preparation
- Divide the ground beef, form patties about 1/2 inch thick and slightly wider than the bun, and make a shallow indentation in the center of each.
- Season both sides of the patties generously with salt and black pepper.
Cooking
- Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high and cook patties for 3-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or 5-7 minutes per side for medium.
- Skillet: Heat a cast-iron skillet with vegetable oil over medium-high heat, then cook patties for 3-5 minutes per side until a crust forms.
Finishing Touches
- Place a slice of cheese on each patty during the last 1-2 minutes of cooking; cover for 30 seconds if using a skillet to help melting.
- Lightly butter or brush the cut sides of the buns with oil and toast until golden brown and slightly crispy (1-2 minutes).
Assembly
- Place a cheesy patty on the bottom bun, add desired toppings and condiments, and cover with the top bun; serve immediately.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider using a blend of ground chuck and brisket. Do not overwork the meat when forming patties, as this can make the burgers tough. Adjust cooking times based on your desired doneness and the thickness of your patties.