Tired of bland burgers? Craving a juicy, flavorful patty that'll satisfy your cravings? Then look no further! This cheddar cheese burger recipe is your ticket to homemade burger heaven. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and delivers restaurant-quality taste without the restaurant prices. Get ready for a delicious and satisfying meal – the perfect quick dinner idea for a busy weeknight or a fun weekend cookout.
Ingredients:
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For the Burger Patties:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
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For the Burgers:
- 4 burger buns
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- Your favorite burger toppings (lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, etc.)
- Mayonnaise
- Ketchup
- Mustard
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Gently mix the ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder in a large bowl. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the burgers tough. Form the mixture into four equal-sized patties, slightly larger than your burger buns. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from bulging during cooking.
Cooking the Burgers:
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Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
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During the last minute of cooking, top each patty with a slice of cheddar cheese and cover the skillet to allow the cheese to melt completely.
Assembling the Burgers:
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Lightly toast the burger buns if desired. Spread mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard on the bottom buns.
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Place the cooked patties on the bottom buns, followed by your favorite toppings. Top with the other halves of the buns and serve immediately.
Cooking Tips for the Best Cheddar Cheese Burgers:
- Don't overwork the meat: Overmixing the ground beef will result in tough burgers. Just gently combine the ingredients until they are evenly distributed.
- Season generously: Don't be shy with the salt and pepper! It enhances the flavor of the beef.
- Let the patties rest: Allow the cooked patties to rest for a few minutes before assembling the burgers. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful burger.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different cheeses, sauces, and toppings to create your perfect burger.
Variations:
- Spicy Cheddar Burger: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the burger patties for a spicy kick.
- Bacon Cheddar Burger: Add crispy bacon to your burger for extra flavor and texture.
- Mushroom Swiss Burger: Swap the cheddar cheese for Swiss cheese and add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy twist.
Nutritional Information (per burger, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 500-600 (depending on toppings and bun type)
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 30-40g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-40g
This recipe provides delicious and easy healthy meals, perfect for a quick dinner. Enjoy your homemade cheddar cheese burgers! They are a delicious dish sure to become a family favorite. Remember to adapt the recipe to your preferences, making it your own signature creation. This truly is one of the best recipes for a juicy and satisfying burger experience.