Classic American Cheeseburger Recipe

Few foods feel more American than a juicy cheeseburger. A good burger doesn’t need a long ingredient list. What matters most is flavorful beef, a toasted bun, melted cheese, and toppings that bring everything together.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef, preferably 80/20
• 4 hamburger buns
• 4 slices American or cheddar cheese
• Salt and black pepper
• Lettuce
• Tomato slices
• Onion slices
• Pickles
• Ketchup
• Mustard
• Mayonnaise
• Butter or oil for toasting

How to Make It

Divide the ground beef into four portions and gently shape each one into a patty. Don’t press the meat too firmly because that can make the burger dense.

Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.

Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for several minutes on each side, depending on your preferred level of doneness and the thickness of the burgers.

Place a slice of cheese on each patty during the final minute of cooking. Cover briefly and let the cheese melt.

While the burgers cook, lightly butter the buns and toast them cut-side down until golden.

Build Your Burger

Start with the bottom bun, then add lettuce, the beef patty with melted cheese, tomato, onion, and pickles. Finish with ketchup, mustard, or mayonnaise.

Put the top bun on and serve immediately.

Easy Side Dishes

Serve your cheeseburger with crispy French fries, onion rings, coleslaw, or a simple green salad.

The beauty of a classic burger is that everyone can make it their own. Add jalapeños for heat, crispy bacon for extra richness, or caramelized onions for a sweeter flavor.

Sometimes the best dinner is simply a burger, fries, and a cold drink.