Cheeseburger In Paradise Recipe

Season and prepare beef patty

Pat the 1/2 lb beef patty dry with paper towel. Season both sides with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes while you preheat the grill or skillet.

Prepare chicken breast

If using chicken breast, trim and pound to about 3/4-inch thickness. Season both sides with 1/4 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper and brush with 1 teaspoon vegetable oil.

Heat cooking surface

Preheat a grill or heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add remaining vegetable oil (about 1 tbs) to a skillet if using stovetop.

Cook beef patty

Place the seasoned beef patty on the hot grill or skillet. Cook 4-5 minutes on the first side without pressing. Flip and cook 3-4 minutes for medium (adjust time for desired doneness). During the last minute of cooking, place cheese slices on the patty and cover (with a lid or tent foil) to melt the cheese.

Cook chicken breast

For grilled or skillet chicken breast, cook 5-6 minutes per side (depending on thickness) until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). During the last 1-2 minutes, add cheese to melt if desired.

Heat crispy chicken tenders

If using store-bought frozen tenders, bake or fry according to package directions until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If using homemade breaded tenders (see separate section), fry or bake until cooked through and crispy.

Cook garden burger

Cook the plant-based patty according to package directions on a preheated grill or skillet—usually 3-4 minutes per side. Add cheese in the last minute to melt.

Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: flour seasoned with 1/2 tsp salt, beaten eggs, and panko mixed with paprika and garlic powder. Pat chicken tenderloins dry, dredge first in flour, then in egg, then coat thoroughly with panko mixture.

Heat about 1/2–1 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry tenders in batches 3-4 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked (internal temp 165°F / 74°C). Drain on paper towels and keep warm.

Toast the buns: spread 1/2 tbs softened butter on cut sides of the bun. Place face-down on the grill or skillet for 1-2 minutes until golden-brown and slightly crisp.

Mix condiments: in a small bowl combine mayonnaise, mustard, and ketchup. Spread about 1 tbs of this sauce on the bottom bun and 1/2 tbs on the top bun.

Assemble the burger: place the sauced bottom bun on a plate. Add lettuce leaf, tomato slices, and red onion rings. Place the cooked protein of your choice (cheeseburger patty, grilled chicken with melted cheese, crispy tenders stacked or a garden burger) on top of the vegetables.

Add pickles and optional bacon: top the protein with pickle slices and, if desired, 2 strips of cooked bacon. Place the top bun over the stack.

Serve immediately with fries, chips, or a side salad.