Name: Hamburger Classic with Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 onions sliced; 1 tbsp sugar; Salt to taste; 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar; 2 tbsp water; 4 pieces hamburger patties; Black pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 4 pieces hamburger buns (toasted); BBQ sauce; 4 slices cheddar cheese; 1 piece tomato (sliced); 1 handful arugula

A classic hamburger with cheese is a quintessential American dish that never fails to satisfy. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and the joy of a well-prepared burger. Whether you’re firing up the grill at a summer barbecue or whipping up a quick dinner on a weeknight, this Hamburger Classic with Cheese is the go-to recipe that combines simplicity with deliciousness.

This recipe highlights the importance of balance, from the savory taste of seasoned beef patties to the sweet, caramelized onions, and the creamy cheddar that melts perfectly over all the delicious layers. Homemade burgers allow for customization, ensuring that each bite is tailored to your taste. Add in some fresh arugula and a drizzle of BBQ sauce, and you have a meal that perfectly encapsulates comfort food.

Why make this recipe

There are countless reasons to make a Hamburger Classic with Cheese. First, it’s incredibly versatile; you can adjust the ingredients based on your dietary preferences or what you have at hand. A classic burger typically contains a beef patty topped with cheese, but this recipe takes it a step further by incorporating caramelized onions that add a depth of flavor, making each bite richer. Comfort food like this creates nostalgia imprinted with memories of family cookouts and friendly gatherings.

Moreover, this recipe is easy to prepare, requiring just a handful of ingredients and simple steps. It’s perfect for both novice cooks looking to build their confidence in the kitchen and seasoned chefs who appreciate the straightforwardness of a classic meal. The satisfaction that comes from crafting a cheeseburger from scratch is unparalleled, making it an ideal dish for anyone wanting to impress friends or family without overly complicating the cooking process.

How to make Hamburger Classic with Cheese

To create the perfect Hamburger Classic with Cheese, start with the onions. Slowly caramelize them to enhance their natural sweetness, achieving that jammy texture which pairs beautifully with the savory beef. Using low heat allows the flavors to develop fully. While the onions cook, season and sear your hamburger patties to achieve a mouthwatering crust. The balance of flavors excels when you add toasted buns, fresh toppings, and a drizzle of BBQ sauce to put it all together.

Assemble your burger in a way that the warmth from the patty melts the cheese just right, creating a symphony of textures when you bite in. Every ingredient plays an essential role, contributing to the overall experience that is delightful and utterly fulfilling. Whether enjoyed with a side of fries or a salad, this burger is sure to please.

Ingredients

2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 onions (sliced)
1 tbsp sugar
Salt (to taste)
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp water
4 hamburger patties
Black pepper (to taste)
2 tbsp olive oil
4 hamburger buns (toasted)
BBQ sauce
4 slices cheddar
1 tomato (sliced)
1 handful arugula

Directions

Melt the butter in a pan over low heat. Add the sliced onions and sugar, season with salt, and cook over low heat for 5 minutes. Add the balsamic vinegar and water. Cover and cook over low heat for 20 minutes (until the onions are soft and jammy).
Season the hamburger patties with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a pan over high heat and cook the patties for 3 minutes per side.
Toast the hamburger buns. Assemble each burger in this order: bottom bun → arugula → onions → tomato → cheddar → patty → BBQ sauce → top bun.

Time Breakdown

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4

How to serve Hamburger Classic with Cheese

Serving a Hamburger Classic with Cheese is as delightful as making it. To truly appreciate the layers of flavor, consider placing the assembled burgers on a wooden cutting board garnished with fresh herbs or a side of sweet potato fries for contrast. You may want to accompany your burger with pickles and a selection of dipping sauces to enhance each bite. A chilled glass of soda or homemade lemonade pairs wonderfully, completing the comfort food experience.

Additionally, you can offer various toppings on the side for guests to customize their burgers. This could include slices of jalapeños for heat, guacamole for creaminess, or crispy bacon for a salty crunch. Serve alongside a fresh salad to add a nutritious component to the meal and balance the indulgence of the burgers.

How to store Hamburger Classic with Cheese

Storing any leftover Hamburger Classic with Cheese is straightforward. Wrap the assembled burgers in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, they should remain good for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover burgers, simply reheat in an oven or skillet to preserve the texture and flavor. If you prefer, you can store the cooked patties and toppings separately to maintain freshness longer.

Alternatively, if you have leftover ingredients, like the caramelized onions or patties, they can be used in other dishes. For instance, mix the onions into a omelet or serve the patties in a sandwich format for a quick lunch.

Tips to make Hamburger Classic with Cheese

To elevate your Hamburger Classic with Cheese, consider a few helpful tips. Start with high-quality ground beef, ideally an 80/20 blend for the best flavor and juiciness. Don’t forget to let your patties rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking. This helps in even cooking and allows for a juicier burger. Season both sides of your patties generously for optimal flavor, and make a small indentation in the center of each patty to prevent puffing during cooking.

When it comes to assembling, consider the order of ingredients carefully. Starting with the greens ensures they stay crisp and fresh. Also, a brief broil of the assembled burger in the oven can help melt the cheese beautifully while toasting the top of the bun. Remember to serve the patties immediately to enjoy their full flavor and texture.

Variation

No major variations, but you can adjust seasonings to taste.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 550 kcal
• Protein: 30 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fat: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 800 mg

FAQs

Q: Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef for the patties?
A: Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative, but make sure to adjust the cooking times for optimum results.

Q: What should I do if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?
A: If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile.

Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps instead of traditional hamburger buns to cater to gluten-free diets.