Flavorful Cheeseburger Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
If you're looking to make the juiciest, most flavorful cheeseburgers at home, you've come to the right place. This easy recipe serves four and will elevate your burger game with a simple mix of quality ingredients and a touch of expertly balanced seasoning. Perfect for weeknight dinners, BBQs, or weekend indulgences, these cheeseburgers are sure to fulfill those summer cravings any time of the year.
Recipe History
JUMP TO RECIPE
I came across this recipe in college when I had a small but beloved grill we bought from Home Depot and kept it in the narrow alley leading to my apartment. It wasn't much, but that grill gave life to many late-night outings and great meals. Throwing some fresh patties on open flames and smelling the charred meat drifting down the alley created a feeling of home, even in the smallest of spaces. While quality usually doesn’t matter to a bunch of drunk college kids, having everyone share a home-grilled meal that actually tasted good was a cornerstone to our friendship that is still as strong today.
Fast forward to when my now wife and I moved to Brooklyn when a new set of challenges came along—like using a stovetop to make burgers. Until then, I had always used a grill, whether borrowing a friend's or using public BBQs and parks. My wife, who always loves my cooking, bought me a fantastic cast iron flattop that hooked right onto our gas stove so I could still make her those tasty burgers.
This recipe carries on the spirit of those alleyway grill nights—whether you're cooking over charcoal, gas, or even using an old stove top in a small Brooklyn apartment. A burger equals the spirit of goodwill and the joy of people coming together to share good food.
Ingredients for the Burger Patties
Base Ingredients:
1 lb (450g) ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat for optimal juiciness)
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 egg white
½ cup finely dried breadcrumbs
(Substitution: chopped red onions, mushrooms)
Cheese slices of your choice
Seasoning:
Alternatively:
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
¼ tsp celery seed
Serving Ingredients
4 buns (toasted or plain)
Sliced onions
Sliced tomato
Lettuce leaves
Pickles
Condiments of your choice (BBQ sauce, ketchup, mayo, Thousand Island dressing, etc.)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Patties:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, egg whites, and breadcrumbs (or your chosen binder). Add 4 tsp of Five Borough Spices: Burger Blend (or your own seasoning blend) and gently combine with the other ingredients. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, making the burgers tough.
Separate your prepared meat into four equal portions and shape them into patties about ¾-inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to ensure even cooking.
2. Cook the Burgers:
Preheat a grill, skillet, or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly butter or oil the cooking surface. Place the patties on the heat and cook for 4 - 4 1/2 minutes per side or until they reach your desired cook temperature*. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty and cover with a lid or foil to melt perfectly.
* FDA guidelines suggest cooking ground beef to a safe minimum internal temperature of 160°F as measured with a food thermometer
3. Toast the Buns (Optional):
For added texture and flavor, toast the buns on the grill or in a dry skillet until golden brown.
4. Assemble the Cheeseburgers:
Place the cooked patties on the bottom half of each bun. Drizzle your preferred condiments directly to the meat. Finally, add your desired toppings: fresh lettuce, juicy tomato slices, crisp onions, and tangy pickles before placing the top bun.
Pro Tips for the Best Cheeseburgers
Meat Quality Matters: Choose fresh ground beef with an 80/20 fat ratio for maximum juiciness.
Experiment with Cheese: Classic American cheese melts beautifully, but sharp cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack can add a gourmet twist.
Rest the Patties: Let the patties rest briefly after cooking to lock in the juices.
Customize Your Toppings: Get creative with toppings like avocado, caramelized onions, or sautéed mushrooms.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
This cheeseburger recipe is all about balance—juicy beef patties, perfectly melted cheese, and fresh toppings that provide crunch and flavor. With a 25-minute prep and cook time, you can enjoy restaurant-quality burgers without leaving your kitchen. Try it today and make every bite unforgettable!
