**Classic Cheeseburger: A Timeless Delicacy with Endless Recipe Variations**
The classic cheeseburger, a culinary marvel that transcends time and borders, is a symphony of flavors and textures that has captured the hearts of burger enthusiasts worldwide. This iconic dish, a cornerstone of American cuisine, is a testament to the power of simplicity and the harmonious blend of its core components: a juicy, well-seasoned patty, a slice of melted cheese, crisp lettuce, a ripe tomato, tangy pickles, and a soft, pillowy bun. In this article, we present a collection of delectable cheeseburger recipes that elevate this classic dish to new heights of flavor and creativity. From the traditional to the unexpected, these recipes cater to every palate and dietary preference, ensuring an unforgettable burger experience.
CLASSIC BURGER-JOINT CHEESEBURGER
Forget waiting in the drive-thru lane! You can make a better burger at home with quality ingredients in no time.
Provided by Martha Stewart
Categories Food & Cooking Ingredients Meat & Poultry Beef Recipes Ground Beef Recipes
Time 25m
Yield Makes 4
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Preheat grill for direct-heat cooking. Gently form beef into 4 patties, each 4 1/2 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick (do not overwork meat or patties will be tough). Season generously with salt and pepper. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise onto the cut sides of each bun.
- Place patties on grill and cook, uncovered, until browned and sizzling on the bottom, 3 to 4 minutes. Flip, top each with a slice of cheese, cover grill, and cook until cheese is melted and patties are medium-rare, 2 to 3 minutes more. Transfer to a plate. Place buns on grill cut-side down; cook just until lightly toasted and golden brown in places, about 1 minute.
- Dress the cut side of each bottom bun with ketchup and mayonnaise (or desired condiments), then top with patties. Place a tomato slice on top of each patty and season with salt. Stack with pickles and lettuce. Dress cut side of top buns with condiments, then sandwich toppings and serve.
CLASSIC SMASHED CHEESEBURGER
We've got the secret to cooking a burger that's crispy on the outside, yet juicy on the inside: Freeze the patties for 15 minutes before cooking, then use two large griddle spatulas to smash them flat against the hottest skillet possible. Freezing the meat prevents it from cooking too quickly in the middle, which gives you time to get that deeply browned crust.
Provided by Rhoda Boone
Categories Sandwich Beef Kid-Friendly Dinner Lunch Peanut Free Tree Nut Free Soy Free Small Plates Hamburger Takeout at Home
Yield Makes 4 burgers
Number Of Ingredients 13
Steps:
- In a large bowl, use your hands to gently combine ground sirloin and brisket. Divide into four equal-sized, loosely meat pucks about 2 1/2 inches thick. Place patties on a plate lined with plastic wrap or parchment; transfer to the freezer for 15 minutes (do not exceed this amount of time).
- Meanwhile, heat a griddle, large cast-iron skillet, or large heavy stainless-steel skillet over medium-high heat. Melt 2 tablespoons butter and place the buns, cut-side down, in the pan. Cook until cut sides are golden-brown, about 2 minutes (you may need to do this in two batches, using additional butter if needed). Place toasted buns on four plates, reserving griddle or skillet.
- Remove patties from freezer. Increase heat to high and add 2 tablespoons oil to the griddle or skillet; heat until oil begins to smoke. Working one at a time, add a patty to griddle and immediately press one of the spatulas flat on top of the patty. Use the handle of the other to hammer the spatula down, smashing the patty until 1/2 inch thick. (You'll have to hammer harder and longer than you might think.) Press down and slide the spatula to remove it without tearing the patty; generously season patty with salt and pepper. Repeat smashing process with remaining patties.
- Flip each patty once the first side is deeply browned and crisp with craggly edges, 1 1/2 to 2 minutes for medium. Season the cooked side generously with salt and pepper, then add a slice of cheese and continue to cook until melted, 1 1/2 to 2 minutes more. Transfer cooked patties to bottom burger buns.
- Top burgers with tomatoes and lettuce; spread top buns with Not-So-Secret Sauce and place on top. Serve immediately.
CLASSIC CHEESEBURGER
Photograph by: Petrina Tinslay.
Provided by Martha Stewart
Categories Food & Cooking Ingredients Meat & Poultry Beef Recipes Ground Beef Recipes
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- Heat a grill or grill pan to medium high. Season meat with salt and pepper, mix very lightly, and shape into four patties. Grill hamburgers 4 to 6 minutes per side for rare and 9 to 11 minutes for well done. If making cheeseburgers, lay cheese slices on top of the hamburgers after they have been flipped.
- Serve immediately on buns (toasted, if desired), topped with tomatoes, lettuce, and onion slices.
Tips:
- Fresh is best: Use fresh ground beef for the best flavor and texture. If you can't find fresh ground beef, you can use frozen ground beef, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
- Season the beef: Season the ground beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder before cooking. This will help to enhance the flavor of the meat.
- Cook the beef over medium heat: Cook the beef over medium heat until it is cooked through. This will help to prevent the beef from drying out.
- Use a good quality cheese: Use a good quality cheese that melts well, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Swiss cheese.
- Toast the bun: Toast the bun before assembling the burger. This will help to make the bun more crispy and flavorful.
- Add your favorite toppings: Add your favorite toppings to the burger, such as lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and ketchup.
Conclusion:
The classic cheeseburger is a delicious and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, the classic cheeseburger is a great choice for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a fun weekend cookout. So next time you're looking for a delicious and classic meal, give the classic cheeseburger a try.
Are you curently on diet or you just want to control your food's nutritions, ingredients? We will help you find recipes by cooking method, nutrition, ingredients...
Check it out »
You'll also love