Are you craving a hearty, satisfying meal that's both delicious and easy to make? Look no further! This recipe combines two all-time favorites – juicy hamburgers and creamy mashed potatoes – into a perfect weeknight dinner. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is designed to be simple, adaptable, and utterly delightful. It's the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in with family and friends. Let's get started on this quick dinner idea!
Ingredients:
For the Hamburgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 hamburger buns
- Your favorite toppings: lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, pickles, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk recommended for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Making the Hamburgers:
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Prepare the patties: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the burgers tough. Form the mixture into four equal-sized patties, slightly larger than your buns. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from bulging during cooking.
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Cook the burgers: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
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Assemble the burgers: Toast the hamburger buns lightly. Place the cooked patties on the bottom buns and top with your favorite condiments and toppings. Add the top buns and serve immediately.
Making the Mashed Potatoes:
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Boil the potatoes: Place the quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
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Mash the potatoes: Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot. Add the milk and butter. Using a potato masher or electric mixer, mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy.
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Season and serve: Season the mashed potatoes with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot alongside the hamburgers.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Hamburgers and Mashed Potatoes:
- Don't overwork the burger meat: Gently mixing the ground beef prevents tough burgers.
- Use a meat thermometer: This ensures your burgers are cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- For extra flavor: Add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of onion powder to the burger mixture.
- Creamy mashed potatoes: Use whole milk and butter for the richest, creamiest mashed potatoes. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese for extra indulgence.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different cheeses, vegetables, and sauces to create your perfect burger.
Variations:
- Spicy burgers: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the burger mixture.
- Cheese burgers: Top your burgers with your favorite cheese, such as cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack.
- Gourmet burgers: Try adding caramelized onions, bacon, or mushrooms for an elevated flavor experience.
- Healthy twist: Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and opt for whole wheat buns.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used. For a general estimate, a single hamburger with a standard bun and toppings and a serving of mashed potatoes could contain approximately 500-700 calories, varying in fat, protein, and carbohydrates. This is a delicious but calorie-dense meal – adjust portion sizes as needed for your dietary needs. This recipe offers a great base for healthy meal planning adjustments.
This easy recipe delivers a delicious and satisfying meal, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The homemade comfort food is sure to please everyone! Enjoy!