Ingredients
Instructions
- 1Prep the Meat • Place the ground beef in a bowl. Gently mix in salt, pepper, and garlic powder (don’t overmix—it makes the meat tough). • Divide into 4 equal portions. Lightly shape into patties about ¾-inch thick. Press your thumb into the center of each patty to make a shallow dimple—this prevents puffing while cooking.
- 2Preheat Your Cooking Surface • Grill method: Heat grill to medium-high and oil the grates. • Stovetop method: Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until hot.
- 3Cook the Burgers • Place patties on the hot surface. Cook 3–4 minutes per side for medium, adjusting time to your preferred doneness (use a meat thermometer if needed: 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium, 160°F for well-done). • Avoid pressing down with a spatula—this squeezes out juices.
- 4Add Cheese • In the last minute of cooking, place cheese slices on top. Cover with a lid or tent with foil to help it melt.
- 5Toast the Buns • Spread butter on the cut sides of the buns and toast lightly on the grill or skillet until golden brown.
- 6Assemble Your Burger • Place patty on the bottom bun. Add toppings in layers: lettuce for crunch, tomato for freshness, onion and pickles for bite. Spread condiments on the top bun.
- 7Serve Immediately • Enjoy your burger hot, with fries, chips, or a simple salad.
👩🍳 Chef Tomi's Notes
When it comes to summer cookouts or quick weeknight meals, nothing beats a classic homemade hamburger. This recipe gives you a juicy, flavorful patty with golden toasted buns and all your favorite toppings—ready in under 30 minutes. Unlike fast-food versions, these burgers are customizable and made with fresh ingredients for a restaurant-quality bite right at home.
💡 Pro Tips
- • • Meat choice matters: An 80/20 beef blend ensures flavor and juiciness. Leaner beef can dry out.
- •• Don’t overwork the meat: Shape patties gently; compacting too much makes them tough.
- •• Rest before serving: Let burgers sit for 2 minutes before biting in to keep juices inside.
- • • Experiment: Try caramelized onions, avocado, fried eggs, or different sauces for signature flavors.
📊 Nutrition Information (per serving)
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.
Variations & Substitutions
Customize this recipe to your preferences
🍔 Variations & Substitutions for the Best Burger
One of the best things about making burgers at home is how customizable they are. Here are some tasty twists and smart swaps you can try:
🔹 Protein Variations
Turkey Burger: Use lean ground turkey. Add 1 tbsp olive oil or grated zucchini to keep patties moist.
Chicken Burger: Ground chicken is lighter but benefits from seasonings like paprika or Italian herbs.
Lamb Burger: Rich and flavorful—pair with feta, tzatziki, and arugula for a Mediterranean twist.
Plant-Based Burger: Use black beans, lentils, or store-bought veggie patties for vegetarian/vegan options.
🔹 Flavor Boosts
Mix-ins: Add Worcestershire sauce, finely diced onions, or shredded cheddar into the meat before shaping.
Spicy Kick: Mix in chopped jalapeños, chipotle powder, or sriracha for heat lovers.
Herb Infusion: Fresh parsley, dill, or cilantro adds brightness to the patties.
🔹 Bun Alternatives
Classic Swap: Use pretzel buns or ciabatta rolls for extra chew.
Low-Carb Option: Wrap patties in crisp iceberg or romaine lettuce.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free buns or portobello mushrooms as the “bun.”
🔹 Cheese Options
Classic: American or cheddar for that nostalgic melt.
Gourmet: Blue cheese, smoked gouda, brie, or pepper jack for unique flavors.
Vegan: Use plant-based cheese slices that melt well (e.g., cashew- or coconut-based).
🔹 Topping Ideas
Classic Build: Lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles.
BBQ Burger: Onion rings, BBQ sauce, and sharp cheddar.
Breakfast Burger: Add a fried egg, bacon, and avocado.
Mediterranean Burger: Feta, cucumber, olives, and tzatziki.
Tex-Mex Burger: Guacamole, jalapeños, salsa, and Monterey jack.
🔹 Condiment Swaps
Beyond Ketchup & Mustard: Try aioli, chipotle mayo, pesto, hummus, or sriracha mayo.
Healthier Swaps: Greek yogurt mixed with lemon and garlic makes a creamy, lighter sauce.