Classic American Hamburger Recipe

Ingredients (Makes 4 Burgers):

• For the Patties:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat for juicy burgers)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder (optional)

• For the Burger Assembly:

  • 4 hamburger buns (preferably sesame seed buns)
  • 4 slices of cheese (cheddar or American cheese)
  • Lettuce leaves
  • 4 tomato slices
  • 4-8 pickle slices
  • 4 slices of red onion (optional)
  • Ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, or preferred condiments

• Optional Toppings:

  • Bacon slices
  • Jalapeños
  • Avocado slices

• For Cooking:

  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil or butter

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Patties

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder (if using). Gently mix the ingredients without overworking the meat to keep the patties tender.
2. Divide the beef mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty about 3/4 inch thick and slightly wider than the buns (they’ll shrink when cooking).
3. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb—this helps them cook evenly and prevents puffing up.

Step 2: Toast the Buns

1. Heat a skillet or grill over medium heat. Lightly butter the inside of the buns and toast them until golden brown. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Patties

1. Heat a skillet, grill pan, or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil or a small pat of butter to the skillet if cooking indoors.
2. Place the patties on the grill or skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side for medium doneness, or adjust the time to your preferred level of doneness:
   • Rare: 2 minutes per side
   • Medium Rare: 3 minutes per side
   • Well Done: 5-6 minutes per side
3. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on top of each patty to melt.

Step 4: Assemble the Burgers

1. Place the bottom half of the toasted buns on a serving plate.
2. Add lettuce leaves, followed by the cooked patties with melted cheese.
3. Layer with a tomato slice, pickles, and red onion rings (if using).
4. Spread condiments (ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise) on the top half of the bun or directly on the ingredients.
5. Place the top bun over the stacked ingredients.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the burgers immediately with a side of crispy fries, onion rings, or coleslaw.
• Enjoy your homemade, juicy American hamburgers!