Classic American Cheeseburger Deluxe Recipe
topped with lettuce, tomato & american cheese
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Ingredients
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Burger Patties
Cheese & Toppings
Buns & Spread
Optional / To Taste
Method
Burger Patties
- 1
Form Patties
Divide the ground beef into four equal portions (about 4 oz each). Gently form into patties about 3.5 inches wide and 3/4 inch thick. Make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to reduce puffing during cooking.
- 2
- 3
Cook Patties
Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy sauté pan over medium-high heat until very hot (about 2–3 minutes). Place patties in the pan without overcrowding. Cook 3–4 minutes on the first side until a brown crust forms. Flip once and cook 2–3 minutes for medium doneness. During the last 30–60 seconds of cooking, place one slice of American cheese on each patty and cover the pan with a lid or a large bowl to melt the cheese.
Buns & Spread
- 4
- 5
Assemble Spreads
On the bottom half of each bun spread 1 tsp mayonnaise and 1 tsp ketchup. On the top half spread 1/2 tsp mayonnaise and 1/2 tsp yellow mustard (adjust to taste). If desired, add a few drops of hot sauce to the mayo for a spicy mayo.
Cheese & Toppings
- 6
Prepare Produce
Slice the tomato into 1/4-inch rounds. Season lightly with salt and pepper to taste. Thinly slice the red onion into rings. Prepare lettuce leaves by trimming any thick ribs if necessary. Set pickles nearby.
- 7
Assemble Burgers
Place a prepared bottom bun with spreads on a plate. Add a lettuce leaf, then one tomato slice, then the cheeseburger patty (cheese side up). Top the hot patty with 2 pickle slices and a few red onion rings as desired. Finish with the top bun spread with mustard/mayo. Serve immediately.