Crafting the Classic Beef Burger
I made a Nutrient Packed Classic Beef Burger as a quick snack. This burger, with its juicy beef patties, soft buns, and fresh toppings, is a timeless favorite. It’s easy to prepare and always reminds me of joyful family cookouts. The Classic Beef Burger brings back nostalgic memories with every bite.
Nutritious and Delicious
The Classic Beef Burger is not only tasty but also nutritious. Each burger contains 25 grams of protein, essential for muscle health, and 30 grams of carbohydrates for energy. With 450 calories, it keeps me full and satisfied. It also provides important vitamins and minerals like Vitamin A, Vitamin C, calcium, and iron, making it a wholesome choice.
The Joy of Making and Eating
Making the Classic Beef Burger is simple and fun. I cook the beef patties, toast the buns, and add fresh lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and cheese. The flavors blend perfectly. This burger is always a hit at family gatherings, and everyone loves it. Enjoying this burger feels like a special treat, and I look forward to making it again and again.
Making the Classic Beef Burger Your Own
The Classic Beef Burger is great because you can change it to fit what you like. I often add onions or garlic for more taste, or sometimes I put in bacon or avocado for something different. You can also try different cheeses like Swiss or American. Whether you keep it classic or try new things, the Classic Beef Burger is always yummy and filling.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- Classic Beef Burger
- Meat Quality: Use freshly ground beef with an 80/20 meat-to-fat ratio for the juiciest patties. Avoid overworking the meat to keep the burgers tender.
- Seasoning: Season the patties just before cooking to retain moisture. You can add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika for a subtle flavor boost.
- Cooking Temperature: Use medium-high heat to sear the patties, creating a flavorful crust while keeping the inside juicy. An instant-read thermometer can help achieve perfect doneness (160°F for medium).
- Resting Time: Allow the cooked patties to rest for a few minutes before assembling the burgers. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful burger.
- Bun Choice: Opt for brioche or potato buns for a soft, slightly sweet complement to the savory patty. Lightly toasting the buns enhances their texture and flavor.
Classic Beef Burger
4
burgers15
minutes10
minutes450
kcal5
minutes30
minutesDive into the timeless delight of a Classic Beef Burger! This recipe brings together juicy beef patties, soft buns, and a few select toppings to create a burger that’s both nostalgic and mouthwatering. Perfect for any occasion, this burger is sure to win over your taste buds and become a family favorite. Get ready to savor every bite!
Ingredients
- For the Patties
1 pound ground beef (80% lean)
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
- For the Assembly
4 hamburger buns
4 slices cheddar cheese
4 leaves lettuce
1 large tomato sliced
8 slices pickles
4 tbsp ketchup
4 tbsp mustard
4 tbsp mayonnaise
- Ground turkey or chicken for ground beef (for a leaner option)
Swiss or American cheese for cheddar cheese for different flavor
Gluten-free buns for regular hamburger buns for gluten-free option
Vegan mayo for regular mayonnaise for dairy-free option
Directions
- Prepare the Patties – In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef with salt and black pepper. Mix gently to avoid overworking the meat. Form into four equal patties about 1/2 inch thick. Let them rest for about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Patties – Heat a nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they reach your desired doneness. Add a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each patty during the last minute of cooking to melt.
- Toast the Buns – While the patties are cooking, lightly toast the hamburger buns in the same pan or in a toaster until golden brown.
- Assemble the Burgers – Spread mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun. Place a lettuce leaf on top followed by a cooked patty with melted cheese. Add tomato slices and pickles. Spread ketchup and mustard on the top half of the bun and place it on top of the assembled burger.
- Serve and Enjoy – Serve immediately with your favorite sides like fries or a salad.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- nonstick pan
- mixing bowls
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 450kcal
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Potassium: 400mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 6g
- Vitamin A: 500IU
- Vitamin C: 6mg
- Calcium: 150mg
- Iron: 3mg
FAQ- Classic Beef Burger
Can I grill the patties instead of using a pan?
Yes, grilling the patties adds a delicious smoky flavor. Preheat the grill to medium-high and cook for 4-5 minutes per side.
How can I make the patties more flavorful?
Mix in Worcestershire sauce, finely chopped onions, or minced garlic with the ground beef for added depth of flavor.
What’s the best way to melt the cheese?
Place the cheese slices on the patties during the last minute of cooking and cover the pan with a lid to help the cheese melt evenly.
How can I make the burgers healthier?
Use leaner ground beef or ground turkey, whole wheat buns, and light or Greek yogurt-based mayonnaise. Add extra veggies like avocado, spinach, or grilled mushrooms.
How do I keep the patties from shrinking too much?
Make a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb before cooking. This helps the patties cook evenly and reduces shrinkage.
