Craving that juicy, decadent burger experience you only get at a top-rated burger joint? Stop dreaming and start cooking! This recipe recreates the legendary Au Cheval burger, known for its perfectly seared patty, gooey cheese, and that signature special sauce. Get ready to impress yourself and your friends with this easy-to-follow, delicious dish – a true champion among homemade cooking projects. This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner, a fun weekend project, or a satisfying healthy meal (if you control the portion size!).
Ingredients:
For the Burger:
- 1 pound ground chuck (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 brioche buns, toasted
- 4 slices cheddar cheese (sharp or extra sharp)
- 2 tablespoons butter, for toasting buns
For the Special Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped white onion
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
For Assembly:
- Caramelized onions (optional, see variations below)
- Lettuce leaves (optional)
- Pickles (optional)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Prepare the Special Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, onion, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using) until well combined. Set aside.
Make the Burger:
-
Gently form the patties: Divide the ground chuck into two equal portions. Gently form each portion into a slightly larger-than-bun patty, about ¾ inch thick. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from bulging during cooking. Season generously with salt and pepper.
-
Sear the patties: Heat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the pan. Once melted and hot, add the patties. Sear for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for your desired doneness.
-
Add the cheese: During the last minute of cooking, top each patty with two slices of cheddar cheese. Cover the pan to allow the cheese to melt completely.
-
Toast the buns: While the patties are cooking, toast the brioche buns in the remaining butter in the pan, cut-side down, until lightly golden brown.
Assemble and Serve:
- Assemble your masterpiece: Spread the special sauce generously on both halves of each toasted bun. Place the cooked patties on the bottom buns. Add your desired toppings like caramelized onions, lettuce, and pickles. Top with the other bun halves and serve immediately.
Cooking Tips for Burger Perfection:
- Don't overwork the meat: Gently mix the ground chuck with seasonings. Overmixing will result in a tough burger.
- Use a meat thermometer: For perfectly cooked patties every time, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
- Let the patties rest: After cooking, let the patties rest for a few minutes before assembling the burgers. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful burger.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different toppings to customize your Au Cheval burger experience.
Variations:
- Caramelized Onions: Thinly slice onions and sauté in butter over low heat until golden brown and caramelized. This adds a delightful sweetness to the burger.
- Different Cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Swiss, or even pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of hot sauce to the special sauce or use jalapeños as a topping for an extra spicy burger.
Nutritional Information (per serving, without toppings):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 500-600
- Fat: Approximately 35-45g
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-30g
Enjoy your homemade Au Cheval burger! It’s a delicious and rewarding culinary adventure, perfect for any skill level. This recipe provides a framework; feel free to personalize and make it your own. Happy cooking!