Classic Juicy Hamburger

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 10 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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There's something timeless about a well-made hamburger — it’s comfort food at its finest. This Classic Juicy Hamburger recipe combines simple ingredients to create an unbeatable blend of flavors and textures. Perfect for grilling season or a cozy indoor meal, this recipe will guide you to burger perfection.

Ingredients for Classic Juicy Hamburger

The heart of a good burger is undeniably the ground beef. Aim for an 80/20 blend for the perfect balance of juiciness and flavor. The Worcestershire sauce is the secret ingredient, providing a rich depth of flavor that makes the beef sing. Garlic powder and onion powder add a savory backbone, enhancing the meat without overpowering it. A simple seasoning of salt and black pepper is all you need to bring out the beef's natural flavors. And of course, don't forget the cheddar cheese; it melts beautifully over the patties, adding a creamy, sharp finish.

Tips & Tricks

  • Press a small dimple in the center of each patty before cooking to prevent them from puffing up.
  • For an extra flavor kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture.
  • Let the patties rest for a couple of minutes after cooking to redistribute the juices.

Serving Suggestions

These burgers are fantastic with a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh, tangy coleslaw. For a more classic pairing, serve them with crispy onion rings. If you’re in a creative mood, try a side of grilled corn on the cob for a summery touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Swiss, blue cheese, or pepper jack can be great alternatives depending on your taste preferences.
What if I don't have a grill?
No worries, a skillet or grill pan on your stovetop works wonderfully for these burgers.
How do I know when the burger is done?
For a perfectly medium-rare burger, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F, measured with a meat thermometer.

Classic Juicy Hamburger Recipe Walkthrough

Start by gently combining the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Use your hands or a fork to mix until just combined — you want to handle the meat as little as possible to keep it tender.

Next, divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties. Make sure they’re slightly larger than the buns since they’ll shrink a bit while cooking. Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. You’re aiming for a nice sizzle when the meat hits the surface.

Place the patties on the grill or in the skillet. Cook for about 4–5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, adjusting the time if you prefer a different doneness. In the last minute of cooking, lay a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty and let it melt.

While the patties are cooking, toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster until they’re golden brown and slightly crisp. This adds a nice texture contrast to the juicy burgers.

Assemble your burgers by placing the cheesy patties on the toasted buns. Top with fresh lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles. Finally, add ketchup and mustard to taste. Serve and enjoy!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues.
  • The Worcestershire sauce adds a delightful umami flavor that elevates the beef.
  • Customizable with your favorite toppings and sides.
  • Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients you likely already have on hand.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
4 slices cheddar cheese
4 hamburger buns
Lettuce, Tomato, Onion, Pickles, Ketchup, Mustard to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
2. Divide the mixture into 4 equal parts and shape into patties.
3. Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, adding a slice of cheddar cheese on top during the last minute of cooking.
5. Toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster until golden.
6. Assemble the burgers by placing the patties on the buns and adding lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, ketchup, and mustard as desired.

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