Sep 07 2026
Restaurants›Carl's Jr.›The Original Big Angus Burger® Recipe

The Original Big Angus Burger® Recipe

Inspired by Carl's Jr.
Time35m
Serves2

Make The Original Big Angus Burger® Recipe in just 35m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Burger Patties & Seasoning

Buns & Assembly

Toppings

Grill & Finish

Method

Burger Patties & Seasoning

  1. 1

    Form patties

    Divide the 1 lb ground beef into two equal portions (about 8 oz each). Gently form into loose round patties about 4 to 4½ inches in diameter and roughly 3/4 inch thick. Do not overwork the meat — handle loosely to keep burgers tender.

  2. 2

    Create slight dimple

    Use your thumb to press a shallow 1/2-inch-wide dimple in the center of each patty to prevent doming during cooking.

  3. 3

    Season

    Just before grilling, brush each patty lightly with neutral oil. Season both sides generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. If using, sprinkle garlic powder evenly on both sides.

Grill & Finish

  1. 4

    Preheat grill or skillet

    Preheat a gas or charcoal grill to medium-high (about 400–450°F / 200–230°C), or heat a heavy cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until hot. Oil the grates or skillet lightly with the remaining neutral oil to prevent sticking.

  2. 5

    Cook patties

    Place patties on the hot grill or skillet. Cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes on the first side until a good sear forms. Flip once and cook another 3–4 minutes for medium doneness (internal temperature ~160°F for well-done; adjust time for your preferred doneness).

  3. 6

    Add cheese

    During the last 1 minute of cooking, place one slice of American cheese on each patty and close the grill lid or cover the skillet to melt the cheese quickly.

  4. 7

    Rest patties

    Remove patties from the heat and let rest on a plate for 2 minutes to redistribute juices.

Buns & Assembly

  1. 8

    Toast buns

    While patties are resting, spread the softened butter evenly on the cut sides of each bun. Place buns cut-side down on the grill or skillet for 30–60 seconds until golden and lightly crisp. Watch carefully to avoid burning.

  2. 9

    Prepare sauce

    In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, and ketchup. Mix until smooth. Adjust quantities to taste if you prefer more tang or sweetness.

  3. 10

    Assemble burger

    Spread about 1 tablespoon of the sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a leaf of red leaf lettuce, then one cheesy patty on each. Top each patty with two tomato slices, two onion rings, and three pickle slices. Spread a little sauce on the top bun and close the burger.

  4. 11

    Serve

    Serve immediately while hot with your choice of fries or a side salad.

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