Jul 13 2026
RestaurantsApplebee's Grill + BarClassic Cheeseburger Recipe

Classic Cheeseburger Recipe

Time1h
Serves4

Classic cheeseburger.

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Ingredients

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Burger Patties

Burger Assembly

Method

Preparing the Patties

  1. 1

    Mix the Ingredients

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined; avoid overmixing.

  2. 2

    Form the Patties

    Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each portion into a patty about ¾ inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent puffing up while cooking.

  3. 3

    Refrigerate

    Cover the patties with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help them hold their shape during cooking.

Cooking the Patties

  1. 4

    Preheat the Grill

    Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat.

  2. 5

    Cook the Patties

    Place the patties on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side. Flip the patties and place a slice of cheddar cheese on each. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and the patties are cooked to your desired doneness.

Assembling the Burgers

  1. 6

    Prepare the Buns

    While the patties are cooking, slice the burger buns in half. Optionally, toast them on the grill for a couple of minutes until lightly browned.

  2. 7

    Layer the Ingredients

    On the bottom half of each bun, place a lettuce leaf, followed by a cooked patty with melted cheese. Add a slice of tomato, a few rings of onion, and pickles. Top with ketchup and mustard to taste.

  3. 8

    Complete the Burger

    Cover with the top half of the bun, pressing down gently to hold everything together.

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