Kids Cheeseburger Recipe

Form patties

Divide 1/4 lb ground beef into a loose ball and gently form into a 3 to 3.5-inch patty about 1/2-inch thick. Do not overwork the meat. Make a shallow dimple in the center with your thumb so the patty cooks evenly.

Season

Season both sides of the patty with 1/8 tsp salt and a light pinch (~0.05 tsp) of black pepper just before cooking.

Cook

Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a light spray of oil or a few drops. When hot, place the patty in the pan and cook 2.5 to 3 minutes without pressing. Flip and cook an additional 2 to 2.5 minutes for a medium-well to well-done small patty suitable for kids. During the last 30 seconds of cooking, place the cheese slice on top of the patty and cover the pan with a lid to melt the cheese.

Toast bun & assemble

Lightly butter the insides of the mini bun (1/2 tsp butter total) and toast cut-side down in the skillet for 20-30 seconds until golden. Place the cheeseburger patty on the bottom bun. Add optional toppings: ketchup (1 tsp), mustard (1/2 tsp), mayonnaise (1/2 tsp), a small piece of lettuce, and a single tomato slice if using. Top with the bun crown and serve immediately.

Oven method: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread 3 oz frozen shoestring fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Lightly toss with 1 tsp vegetable oil so they are evenly coated. Bake 10 to 14 minutes, turning once halfway, until crisp and golden. Remove from oven and immediately season with 1/8 tsp salt. Air fryer method: Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place fries in basket in a single layer and spray/lightly toss with oil. Air fry 7 to 9 minutes, shaking halfway, until crisp. Season with 1/8 tsp salt.

Pour 6 oz of apple juice or milk into a child-sized cup. Add a few ice cubes if desired (1 cup ice optional). Serve chilled alongside the burger and fries.

Place the kids cheeseburger on a small plate with a portion of fries. Offer the drink on the side. For safety, cut the burger in half if serving to younger children. Provide napkins and a small fork for the fries if desired.