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Classic American Burger: 5 Secrets To The Best Patty

Classic American Burger: 5 Secrets To The Best Patty | A Juicy Homemade Recipe
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There’s nothing quite like the first bite of a perfect, juicy, homemade Classic American Burger.

That symphony of a savory, char-grilled beef patty, the melty cheese, the crisp cool lettuce, and that tangy sauce all hugged by a soft, toasted bun… it’s pure, unadulterated joy on a plate.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ lbs (680g) ground chuck, 80% lean / 20% fat ratio This is Secret #1!
  • 1 tbsp neutral oil (like canola or vegetable oil), for grilling
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 4 slices American cheese The classic choice for ultimate meltiness!
  • 4 large burger buns, preferably brioche or potato, lightly toasted
  • For Serving: Lettuce, tomato slices, onion slices, dill pickles, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Patties (Secret #2 & #3): Place the ground beef in a large bowl. Gently break it apart with your hands. Do not overwork the meat. Season very generously with kosher salt and pepper. Using your hands, gently form into 4 equal-sized balls, then press them into ¾-inch thick patties that are about 1 inch wider than your buns. Press a slight dimple into the center of each patty with your thumb. This prevents the burger from puffing up like a meatball in the center as it cooks.
  2. Preheat the Grill (or Pan): Preheat your grill to high heat (around 400-450°F / 200-230°C). If using a skillet or cast-iron pan, heat it over medium-high heat until very hot. Lightly oil the grates or pan.
  3. Cook the Burgers (Secret #4): Place the patties on the hot grill, dimple-side up. Do not press down on them! Let them cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes for the first side, until a deep brown crust has formed.
  4. Flip Once: Flip the burgers using a thin spatula. Cook for another 3-4 minutes for medium doneness (135-140°F internal temperature). If you like your burgers well-done, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes per side.
  5. Add Cheese (Secret #5): In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty. Close the grill lid or cover the pan for about 30 seconds to allow the cheese to melt perfectly.
  6. Rest the Meat: Transfer the cheeseburgers to a clean plate or cutting board and let them rest for 2-3 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the patty, ensuring maximum flavor.
  7. Assemble and Serve: Place a cheesy patty on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Pile on your favorite toppings, crown with the top bun, and serve immediately!

Find it online: https://www.recipeweaver.com/classic-american-burger/