Kids Hamburger Recipe

Form patty

Divide the ground beef into a single 4 oz portion and gently form into a round patty about 3.5 inches in diameter and roughly 1/2 inch thick. Do not overwork the meat to keep the burger tender.

Season

Season both sides of the patty with 1/2 tsp of the salt and the 1/8 tsp of black pepper (reserve remaining salt/pepper for fries if desired).

Cook patty

Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until hot. Add a light coating of oil or nonstick spray if needed. Place the patty in the skillet and cook for about 2.5–3 minutes on the first side without pressing. Flip and cook 1.5–2 minutes on the second side for medium (cook longer to well done). During the last 30–45 seconds, place the cheddar slice on top of the patty and cover the pan briefly to melt the cheese.

Toast bun

While the patty is cooking, spread the butter on the cut sides of the bun. Toast the bun, cut side down, in a separate skillet or on the griddle for 30–60 seconds until golden.

Assemble burger

Spread mayonnaise on the bottom bun and ketchup on the top bun (or as requested). Place the lettuce leaf on the bottom bun, add the cheeseburger patty, then the tomato slice, and finish with the top bun. Cut the burger in half if desired for an easier kids’ portion.

Oven or air-fryer (preferred)

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or air-fryer to 400°F (200°C). Spread the frozen fries in a single layer on a baking sheet or in the air-fryer basket. Lightly toss with the 1 tbs of oil (or spray) and sprinkle 1/4 tsp salt. Bake for 12–16 minutes in the oven, turning once halfway, or air-fry for 8–10 minutes, shaking basket halfway, until golden and crisp.

Deep-fry (alternative)

Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the frozen fries in small batches for 3–4 minutes until golden. Drain on paper towels and season with 1/4 tsp salt.

Serve

Place fries alongside the assembled burger in a kids portion and add a small ramekin of ketchup if desired.

Pour 6 oz of the chosen drink (apple juice, milk, or small soda) into a child-sized cup. Add ice cubes if requested and include a straw.