Sep 05 2026
RestaurantsPhil's BBQBbq Cheeseburger Recipe

Bbq Cheeseburger Recipe

Inspired by Phil's BBQ
Time35m
Serves4

Make Bbq Cheeseburger 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

Method

Burger Patties

  1. 1

    Form and season patties

    Place ground beef in a bowl. Add kosher salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika. Gently mix with your hands or a fork until just combined; do not overwork. Divide into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each) and gently shape into patties approximately 3/4" thick and slightly wider than the buns. Make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to help them cook evenly.

  2. 2

    Preheat pan or grill

    Preheat a heavy skillet, cast-iron pan, or grill over medium-high heat. If using a skillet, add the vegetable oil and let it shimmer but not smoke.

  3. 3

    Cook patties

    Place the patties on the hot grill or skillet. Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until a brown crust forms on the bottom. Flip once and cook another 2-3 minutes for medium doneness (internal temperature about 145-150°F / 63-66°C). Adjust timing for preferred doneness. During the last 60-90 seconds of cooking, brush about 1/2 tablespoon BBQ sauce on each patty and place one slice of cheddar on each patty; cover the grill or pan with a lid to melt the cheese.

BBQ Sauce

  1. 4

    If using store-bought sauce, stir it with the optional brown sugar in a small bowl to boost sweetness and set aside. Reserve about 2 tablespoons for brushing buns later and 3/4 cup for serving alongside or basting during cooking as described above.

Buns & Finish

  1. 5

    Toast buns

    While patties are finishing, split buns and spread softened butter on cut sides. Place buns, butter-side down, on a skillet or grill over medium heat and toast until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes. Brush the toasted tops lightly with the reserved extra BBQ sauce (about 1/2 tablespoon per bun top).

  2. 6

    Assemble burgers

    Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom bun, add a cheeseburger patty with melted cheddar, top with 2 pickle slices and about 1 tablespoon sliced red onion per burger (adjust to taste). Spoon 1 tablespoon BBQ sauce over the cheese or on the top bun, then close with the bun top. Repeat for remaining burgers.

  3. 7

    Serve

    Serve immediately with extra BBQ sauce on the side and your choice of fries or a simple salad.

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