Kids Cheeseburger Recipe

Form patty

Divide 4 oz of ground beef into a loose ball. Do not overwork. Lightly season both sides with 1/2 tsp kosher salt and a pinch of black pepper (about 1/8 tsp).

Preheat griddle or skillet

Heat a cast-iron skillet or flat top over medium-high heat until very hot (about 3–5 minutes). Lightly oil the surface with 1 tsp vegetable oil and spread to coat.

Smash and cook

Place the beef ball on the hot surface. Using a sturdy spatula or a burger press lined with parchment, press down firmly until patty is about 3/8" (1 cm) thick and wide enough for the bun. Sprinkle remaining 1/2 tsp kosher salt and remaining black pepper on the exposed top. Cook 2 minutes undisturbed until edges brown and juices rise to the top.

Flip and cheese

Flip the patty and immediately place 1 slice of American cheese on top. Cook 30–60 seconds more until cheese melts and internal temperature reaches at least 160°F (71°C) for ground beef. Remove from heat.

Toast bun and assemble

While patty finishes cooking, spread 1/2 tsp softened butter on the cut faces of the bun. Toast buttered sides in a separate skillet or the same griddle for 30–60 seconds until lightly golden. Place the cheeseburger patty on the bottom bun, add 2 pickle slices, 1 tbsp ketchup, and 1/2 tsp mustard (or serve condiments on the side for a child). Top with the bun crown and serve immediately.

Prepare fries according to package instructions. For oven: preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the 2 oz frozen fries on a baking sheet in a single layer, lightly brush or spray with 1 tsp oil, and bake 12–15 minutes, turning once, until crisp and golden. Season with 1/4 tsp sea salt immediately after baking. For skillet: heat 1 tsp oil in a small skillet over medium-high heat, add fries in a single layer, cook 6–8 minutes until crisp, turning occasionally, then season with salt.

Chill the juice box in the refrigerator beforehand or serve with ice on the side. Place one juice box in the kids' tray alongside the cheeseburger and fries.