Jul 14 2026
Restaurants›Sunflower Drive-In›Classic Cheeseburger Recipe

Classic Cheeseburger Recipe

Inspired by Sunflower Drive-In
Time30m
Serves2

Juicy beef patty with melted cheese

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Ingredients

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Burger Patty

Toppings

Buns

Method

Preparing the Burger Patty

  1. 1

    Mix the Ingredients

    In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound ground beef with 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp black pepper, and 1 tsp garlic powder. Mix gently until just combined; avoid overworking the meat.

  2. 2

    Form the Patties

    Divide the mixture into two equal portions and form each portion into a round patty, about 1 inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent puffing during cooking.

Cooking the Patties

  1. 3

    Preheat the Grill or Pan

    Preheat a grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. If using a skillet, lightly grease it with a bit of oil.

  2. 4

    Cook the Patties

    Place the patties on the grill or skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side until browned, then flip. Top each patty with a slice of cheddar cheese and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the burger reaches your desired doneness.

Preparing the Buns

  1. 5

    Butter the Buns

    While the patties are cooking, spread 1 tablespoon of butter on the cut sides of the burger buns.

  2. 6

    Toast the Buns

    In a separate skillet or on the grill, place the buttered buns cut side down and toast for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.

Assembling the Cheeseburger

  1. 7

    Layer the Ingredients

    On the bottom half of each toasted bun, place a leaf of lettuce, followed by the cooked patty with melted cheese, a slice of tomato, pickles, and onion.

  2. 8

    Complete the Burger

    Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately with your favorite sides.

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