- Prepare the Patty
Place ground beef in a small mixing bowl.
Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder (if using).
Gently mix with your hands until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the patty tender.
Shape into a single patty, about 1/2-inch thick and slightly wider than the bun (patty will shrink during cooking). Make a slight indentation in the center to prevent puffing up.
Place patty on a plate, cover, and refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to firm up (optional but helps maintain shape). - Prep the Toppings and Condiments
Slice tomato and onion thinly.
Wash and dry the lettuce leaf.
Set out pickles, mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard for assembly.
If using bacon, cook 1-2 strips until crispy and set aside. - Toast the Bun
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
Spread a thin layer of butter (1/4 tsp per side) on the cut sides of the hamburger bun.
Place bun cut-side down on the skillet and toast for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Set aside. - Cook the Patty
Preheat a skillet, griddle, or grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C).
If using a skillet, add a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.
Place the patty on the hot surface and cook for 3-4 minutes per side for medium doneness (internal temperature of 160°F/71°C for ground beef safety).
Flip only once to retain juices. Avoid pressing down on the patty to keep it juicy.
During the last minute of cooking, place the cheese slice on the patty and cover the skillet or grill to melt the cheese. - Assemble the Cheeseburger
Spread 1 tbsp mayonnaise on the bottom bun.
Add the lettuce leaf, followed by the tomato slice and 2-3 onion slices.
Place the cooked cheeseburger patty on top.
Add 2-3 pickle slices, then spread 1 tbsp ketchup and 1/2 tbsp mustard on the top bun.
Place the top bun on the burger. Add bacon or other extras if desired. - Serve
Serve immediately with a side like fries, coleslaw, or a pickle spear.
- Vitamins and Minerals (Approximate):
Iron: 20% of Daily Value (DV)
Calcium: 15% of DV
Vitamin A: 10% of DV
Vitamin C: 8% of DV - Notes on Nutrition
Using leaner beef (90/10) reduces fat and calories slightly (by ~50 kcal and 5g fat).
Brioche buns or extras like bacon or avocado increase calorie and fat content (e.g., 2 bacon strips add ~100 kcal and 8g fat).
For a lighter option, skip mayonnaise or use a low-fat version, and opt for a whole-grain bun. - Tips for Success
Choose the Right Beef: An 80/20 ground beef blend ensures a juicy burger. Chuck is ideal for flavor.
Don’t Overwork the Meat: Overmixing or pressing the patty during cooking can make it tough.
Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the patty reaches 160°F/71°C for safety.
Customize: Add your favorite toppings or sauces to personalize the burger.
This recipe delivers a classic American cheeseburger tailored for one person, offering a balance of flavors and textures for a quick, satisfying meal. Enjoy! - Equipment Needed
Small mixing bowl
Skillet or griddle (cast iron preferred) or grill
Spatula
Tongs
Knife and cutting board
Measuring spoons
Plate for resting patty
Optional: meat thermometer for checking doneness
- Calories:650-700 kcal
- Total Fat:40 g
- Cholesterol:110 mg
- Sodium:1100 mg
- Total Carbohydrate:35 g
- Protein:35 g
The American cheeseburger is an iconic dish that embodies the spirit of comfort food and fast food culture in the United States. It’s a simple yet flavorful creation that combines a juicy beef patty, melted cheese, and a variety of toppings, all sandwiched between a soft hamburger bun. Despite its simplicity, the cheeseburger offers endless customization and holds a cherished place in American cuisine.
To prepare an American cheeseburger at home, you begin with the most essential component: the beef patty. Ground beef is typically used, preferably with a fat content of around 80/20 (80% lean meat, 20% fat) to ensure a moist and flavorful burger. The ground beef is formed into patties—usually about 4 to 6 ounces each—without overworking the meat, which helps keep the texture tender. A simple seasoning of salt and pepper is often all that’s needed, though some people like to add garlic powder, onion powder, or Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.
Cooking the patties can be done on a grill, stovetop, or griddle. The key is to cook the meat thoroughly while maintaining its juiciness. Typically, the burgers are cooked for about 3 to 4 minutes per side on medium-high heat. In the final minute of cooking, a slice of American cheese (or cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack) is placed on top of the patty to melt slightly, giving the cheeseburger its signature creamy and rich flavor.
While the patties cook, the buns can be toasted on the grill or in a skillet with a bit of butter to enhance flavor and texture. A classic cheeseburger bun is usually a soft white hamburger bun or brioche bun that’s lightly crisped on the inside.
Next comes the assembly. Starting with the bottom bun, you can layer condiments such as mayonnaise, mustard, or ketchup. Then, the patty with melted cheese is placed on top, followed by optional toppings like lettuce, tomato slices, onions (raw or grilled), and pickles. Some people enjoy adding bacon, avocado, or even a fried egg for extra indulgence. The top bun finishes off the stack, and the burger is often served with a side of French fries or potato chips.
The beauty of the American cheeseburger lies in its versatility. It can be as basic or as gourmet as you like. From backyard barbecues to high-end burger joints, the cheeseburger adapts to many different tastes and styles while still maintaining its core identity.
In summary, making an American cheeseburger is about balancing quality ingredients with thoughtful preparation. Whether you prefer yours classic with just cheese and ketchup or loaded with every topping imaginable, the cheeseburger remains a satisfying and beloved meal. It’s more than just fast food—it’s a symbol of American culinary creativity and comfort.
