Kids Burger Recipe
Single well-done patty topped with American cheese on a potato bun. Comes with a small side of fries and a juice box.
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Ingredients
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Burger
Fries
Accompaniments
Method
Burger
- 1
Shape 4 oz of ground beef into a loose 3.5–4 inch patty about 1/2 inch thick. Do not overwork the meat; press a shallow dimple in the center with your thumb to keep it from puffing while cooking.
- 2
Season both sides of the patty with 1/8 tsp black pepper and 1/4 tsp kosher salt evenly.
- 3
Preheat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes. Add 1/2 tablespoon vegetable oil and spread to coat the surface.
- 4
Place the patty on the hot surface. Cook well-done: let it sear without moving for 3 minutes, then flip and cook another 3 minutes. Check internal temperature with a probe thermometer — it should read 160°F (71°C) for well-done. If not there yet, cook in 30-second increments until 160°F is reached.
- 5
- 6
While the patty rests for 1 minute, toast the potato bun: spread 1/2 teaspoon softened butter evenly on the cut sides. Place buttered sides down on the hot griddle or in a clean skillet over medium heat and toast 30–45 seconds until golden. Assemble the burger: set the cheese-topped patty on the bottom bun and cap with the top bun.
Fries
- 7
Oven (recommended for small portion)
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). On a small baking sheet, toss 3 oz frozen shoestring fries with 1 tablespoon vegetable oil to lightly coat. Spread fries in a single layer.
- 8
Bake for 8–12 minutes, turning once halfway through, until crisp and golden. Remove from oven and immediately season with 1/4 teaspoon salt. If using a toaster oven, adjust time as needed (watch closely).
- 9
Air-fryer alternative
Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place fries in the basket in a single layer and cook 6–9 minutes, shaking halfway, until crispy. Season with salt when done.
- 10
Fryer alternative
Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry fries in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden and cooked through. Drain on paper towels and season with salt.
Plating & Serving
- 11
Place the assembled burger on a small plate. Add the portion of hot fries alongside. Portion 1 tablespoon ketchup in a small ramekin or on the plate for dipping.
- 12
Include one chilled juice box on the side. Serve immediately while the burger and fries are hot.