Double Cheeseburger Combo Recipe

Form patties

Divide ground beef into four equal portions (about 4 oz each). Gently form each portion into a thin patty about 4 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick. Do not overwork the meat. Season both sides of each patty with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Toast buns

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Brush the inside of each bun with softened butter. Place buns butter-side down on the skillet and toast until golden, about 1–2 minutes. Remove and reserve.

Cook patties

Increase heat to medium-high and add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil to the skillet. When the oil shimmers, place two patties in the pan (do not crowd). Cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes to develop a brown crust. Flip and cook another 1–2 minutes for medium (adjust time for desired doneness). On the second side, place a slice of American cheese on each patty and allow it to melt (cover pan for 30–45 seconds to help melting). Repeat with remaining two patties.

Assemble burgers

Spread 1 tablespoon mayonnaise across the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a lettuce layer on each bottom bun, then set one cheesed patty on top, add two pickle slices, then the second cheesed patty. Top with a tomato slice and a few red onion rings. Spread ketchup and mustard on the top bun (about 1 tablespoon ketchup and 1/2 teaspoon mustard each) and place top bun over burger. Press gently to compact.

Serve

Serve the double cheeseburgers hot alongside fries and your choice of drink.

Prep potatoes

Cut scrubbed russet potatoes into 1/4–1/3 inch thick sticks. Rinse in cold water until water runs clear to remove excess starch, then pat completely dry with kitchen towels.

Fry — first fry (blanch)

Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer to 325°F (160°C). Working in batches, fry potato sticks for 3–4 minutes until just tender and pale (not browned). Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Fry — second fry (crisp)

Increase oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Return blanched fries to the hot oil in batches and fry 2–3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove, drain on paper towels, and immediately season with 1 teaspoon salt, tossing to coat.

Alternative oven method

If you prefer not to fry, toss potato sticks with 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, spread in a single layer on a baking sheet, and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 30–35 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crisp. Season with salt.

Fill two glasses with ice and pour 1 cup carbonated cola or iced tea into each glass. Serve chilled alongside the burger and fries.