Craving that iconic West Coast taste but don't live near an In-N-Out? Don't despair! This recipe lets you recreate the magic of that delicious burger, right in your own kitchen. This simple recipe offers a delicious, easy, and healthy alternative to takeout, perfect for a quick dinner or a fun weekend project. Get ready to make the best homemade burger you've ever tasted!
Ingredients:
This recipe makes two juicy In-N-Out style burgers.
For the Burgers:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 hamburger buns (classic or brioche)
- 2 tablespoons butter, for toasting buns
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced yellow onion
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced dill pickles
- 1 ripe tomato, thinly sliced
- Lettuce leaves (leaf lettuce works best)
For the "Spread":
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Gently combine the ground beef, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the burgers tough. Form the mixture into two equal-sized patties, slightly larger than your buns. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from bulging while cooking.
Cook the Burgers:
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for your preferred level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach your desired internal temperature.
Prepare the Toppings:
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While the patties cook, toast the hamburger buns with butter in the same skillet or on a separate griddle until lightly golden brown.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and sweet pickle relish to make the "spread."
Assemble Your Burgers:
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Spread the "spread" on both halves of each toasted bun.
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Layer lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles on the bottom bun.
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Top with a cooked patty.
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Add the top bun and serve immediately.
Tips for Burger Perfection:
- Don't press down on the patties while they cook! This will release the juices and result in dry burgers.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or onion powder to the ground beef.
- Use high-quality ingredients. The better the ingredients, the better your burger will taste.
- Let the patties rest for a few minutes after cooking before assembling the burgers. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful burger.
Variations:
- Add cheese: A slice of American cheese melted on top is a classic In-N-Out addition.
- Spice it up: Add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the spread or the patties.
- Make it a double: Use two patties per bun for a truly indulgent experience.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 500-600 (depending on ingredients and patty size) Fat: Approximately 30-40g Protein: Approximately 30-40g Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-40g
This recipe offers a delicious and satisfying meal. Enjoy your homemade In-N-Out style burger! Remember to adjust cooking times based on your preferred level of doneness and enjoy the process of making this tasty meal. Happy cooking!