Cheeseburger With French Fries Recipe

Form patties

Divide the 1 lb ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz / 113 g each). Gently form each portion into a round patty about 3.5 inches (9 cm) wide and 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) thick. Do not overwork the meat. Season both sides of each patty with about 1/4 tsp salt and a pinch of black pepper (total salt 1 tsp and pepper 1/2 tsp across all patties).

Heat pan

Place a large nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and let it heat until shimmering (about 1 minute).

Cook patties

Add the patties to the hot pan without crowding (work in two batches if needed). Cook about 3 minutes on the first side without moving to get a good sear. Flip and cook another 2 to 3 minutes for a medium doneness appropriate for children (internal temperature ~160°F/71°C recommended for ground beef). Adjust time if patties are thicker or thinner.

Add cheese

About 30–45 seconds before the patties finish cooking, place one slice of American cheese on each patty. Cover the pan with a lid or aluminum foil for 30–45 seconds to help the cheese melt.

Toast buns

While patties rest, spread softened butter on the inside of the 4 mini buns. Place cut-side down in a separate dry skillet over medium heat and toast until lightly golden, about 30–45 seconds. Alternatively, toast under a broiler for 30–60 seconds, watching closely.

Assemble burgers

Place each cheesy patty on a toasted bottom bun. Add 1 tsp ketchup and 1/2 tsp mustard per burger (adjust to taste). Top with 2 pickle slices and a small lettuce leaf if using. Cover with the top bun and keep warm until serving.

Prepare potatoes

Wash and peel the 2 medium russet potatoes if desired. Cut each potato into matchstick fries about 1/4 inch (6 mm) thick. Rinse cut fries thoroughly under cold water until water runs clear to remove excess starch (about 30–60 seconds).

Dry fries

Spread the rinsed fries on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and pat dry very well. Removing moisture helps achieve crisper fries.

Heat oil

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan or deep skillet, add 2 cups vegetable oil and heat over medium-high to about 350°F (175°C). If you don't have a thermometer, test by dropping one small fry in; it should sizzle steadily and begin to turn golden in about 30–45 seconds.

Fry in batches

Carefully add a single layer of fries (do not overcrowd) and fry for 3–4 minutes, until light golden. Use a slotted spoon to transfer fries to a paper towel-lined tray to drain. Repeat with remaining fries.

Season fries

While fries are hot, sprinkle evenly with 1 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp paprika (optional). Toss gently to coat. Serve immediately alongside the cheeseburgers with ketchup for dipping if desired.