Jun 09 2026
RestaurantsThe Cheesecake Factory"happy Hour" Burger* ** Recipe

"happy Hour" Burger* ** Recipe

Time35m
Serves2

Double Patties, Double Cheese, Grilled Onions and Special Sauce on a Toasted Brioche Bun

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Ingredients

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Burger Patties

Method

Burger Patties

  1. 1

    Form patties

    Divide the 1 lb ground beef into four equal portions (about 4 oz / 113 g each). Gently form each portion into a round patty about 3½ inches (9 cm) across and roughly 1/2 inch thick. Make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb (this prevents excessive doming while cooking). Do not overwork the meat.

  2. 2

    Season

    Lightly season both sides of each patty with the 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp garlic powder. Set patties on a tray and let rest at room temperature for 10 minutes while you prepare onions and sauce (this helps them cook evenly).

  3. 3

    Preheat cooking surface

    Heat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until hot. Add 1 tbs vegetable oil and spread to coat the surface. The oil should shimmer but not smoke.

  4. 4

    Cook patties

    Place all four patties on the hot skillet, leaving space between them. Cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes until well-browned on the first side. Flip each patty and immediately place one slice of cheddar on top of each patty. Cook another 2–3 minutes for medium (adjust time +/- for desired doneness). Remove patties to a plate and tent loosely with foil.

Cheese & Toppings

  1. 5

    Slice onions

    While patties rest, cut the 2 yellow onions in half through the root, then slice into 1/4-inch (6 mm) half-moons. Separate slices into rings if you prefer.

  2. 6

    Caramelize / grill onions

    In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tbs unsalted butter with a small splash of oil (use oil reserved for patties if desired). Add the sliced onions, 1 tsp sugar (optional), and 1/4 tsp salt for seasoning. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 12–15 minutes until the onions are soft, deeply golden and sweet. If they brown too quickly, reduce heat to medium-low and scrape up fond from the pan. Remove from heat when nicely caramelized and keep warm.

Buns & Special Sauce

  1. 7

    Make special sauce

    In a small bowl combine 1/3 cup mayonnaise, 2 tbs ketchup, 1 tbs yellow mustard, 1 tbs sweet pickle relish, 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 1/4 tsp smoked paprika, 1/8 tsp salt and 1/8 tsp black pepper. Stir until smooth and taste — adjust seasoning if desired. Refrigerate until assembly (can be made ahead and chilled up to 24 hours).

  2. 8

    Toast buns

    Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium heat. Spread 2 tbs unsalted butter evenly on the cut sides of the brioche buns. Place buns butter-side-down on the skillet and toast 1–2 minutes until golden and crisp. Remove and keep warm.

Assembly & Finish

  1. 9

    Stack double patties

    For each burger, place the bottom bun on a plate and spread about 1 tbs of special sauce over it (adjust to taste). Place one cheese-topped patty on the sauce, then place the second cheese-topped patty on top of the first to make the double stack.

  2. 10

    Add onions & top bun

    Pile a generous spoonful of the caramelized onions on top of the stacked patties. Spread another 1 tbs of special sauce on the inside of each top bun half, then place the top bun over the onions. If desired, secure each burger with a toothpick and let rest 1 minute so juices settle.

  3. 11

    Serve

    Serve immediately while hot with fries, pickles or other happy hour sides. Extra sauce can be served on the side.

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