Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsScholarClassic Cheeseburger Recipe

Classic Cheeseburger Recipe

Inspired by Scholar
Time1h
Serves2

Half pound, American cheese, gem lettuce, tomato, caramelized onion, pickle, fry sauce

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Ingredients

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Burger Patties

Toppings

Fry Sauce

Buns

Method

Prepare Burger Patties

  1. 1

    Form the Patties

    In a mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef with 1 tsp of salt and 0.5 tsp of black pepper. Mix gently to avoid overworking the meat. Divide the mixture into two equal parts and shape them into patties, about ¾ inch thick.

  2. 2

    Chill the Patties

    Place the formed patties on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help them hold their shape while cooking.

Caramelize Onions

  1. 3

    Cook the Onions

    Slice half a medium onion thinly. In a skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of oil. Once hot, add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes until they are golden brown and caramelized.

Prepare Fry Sauce

  1. 4

    Mix Ingredients

    In a small bowl, combine 0.5 cup of mayonnaise, 0.25 cup of ketchup, and 1 tablespoon of pickle juice. Stir until smooth and well mixed. Set aside.

Cook the Burgers

  1. 5

    Grill or Pan-Fry

    Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on one side. Flip the patties, place a slice of American cheese on each patty, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and the patties are cooked to your desired doneness.

Assemble the Burgers

  1. 6

    Build the Cheeseburger

    Toast the burger buns lightly if desired. Spread a generous amount of fry sauce on the bottom bun. Add the cooked cheeseburger patty, followed by a handful of gem lettuce, a slice of tomato (sliced from the medium tomato), caramelized onions, and pickles. Top with the other half of the bun.

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