Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsReunion by Chef Art SmithDrive-in Burger Recipe

Drive-in Burger Recipe

Time40m
Serves2

Two C.A.B. Smashed Patties, American Cheese, Caramelized Onion, Pickles, Lettuce, Tomato, Garlic Mayo

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Ingredients

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Patties

Toppings

Buns

Method

Prepare the Patties

  1. 1

    Shape the Patties

    In a bowl, season the ground C.A.B. beef with salt and black pepper. Divide into two equal portions and shape them into balls.

  2. 2

    Sear the Patties

    In a cast-iron skillet or grill over medium-high heat, add a little oil. Once hot, place the beef balls on the skillet and smash them down with a spatula to form thin patties. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side.

Cook the Toppings

  1. 3

    Caramelize the Onion

    Slice the medium onion thinly. In a separate skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of oil and the sliced onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and golden brown, about 10-15 minutes.

  2. 4

    Prepare the Tomato and Lettuce

    While the onion is caramelizing, slice the medium tomato into thin rounds and rinse the lettuce leaf in cold water. Pat dry with a paper towel.

Assemble the Burger

  1. 5

    Melt the Cheese

    Once the patties are flipped, place a slice of American cheese on each patty and let it melt for about 1 minute.

  2. 6

    Build the Burger

    Spread garlic mayo on both sides of the burger buns. Place the bottom bun on a plate, add the lettuce, followed by the cheesy patty, caramelized onions, pickles, and tomato slices. Top with the other half of the bun.

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