Go Back

Elevated Classic Cheeseburger

This burger features juicy, well-seasoned ground beef patties cooked to perfection with a caramelized crust, topped with melty cheese and fresh toppings. The buns are toasted to add crunch, and a secret smoky sauce elevates the flavor profile, resulting in a deliciously satisfying final dish with a balance of crispy, juicy, and creamy textures.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb pound ground beef (80/20) preferably divided into 4 equal portions
  • 4 slices cheddar or American cheese for melting on the patties
  • 4 buns brioche or potato rolls toasted for crunch
  • 1 cup lettuce leaves washed and dried
  • 1 large tomato sliced
  • 1 small onion sliced into rings
  • ½ cup mayonnaise for secret sauce
  • 1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon vinegar for smoky sauce
  • to taste salt & pepper for seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter for toasting buns and searing patties

Equipment

  • Cast-iron skillet or grill
  • Meat thermometer
  • Spatula
  • Toaster or oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat your cast-iron skillet or grill to medium-high heat, until it’s hot and slightly smoking, about 200°C (390°F).
  2. Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and gently shape each into a patty about ¾ inch thick, making a small indentation in the center of each to help them cook evenly.
  3. Season both sides of each patty generously with salt and pepper, pressing the seasoning into the meat.
  4. Place the patties onto the hot skillet or grill; listen for a sizzling sound. Cook for about 4 minutes without moving them to develop a deep caramelized crust.
  5. Flip the patties using a spatula and cook for another 4 minutes for medium, or until they reach your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F) for medium.
  6. Top each patty with a slice of cheese during the last minute of cooking, then cover briefly to allow the cheese to melt smoothly.
  7. While the burgers cook, slice the buns and toast them cut-side down in a little olive oil or butter until golden brown and crispy, about 1-2 minutes.
  8. Prepare the secret sauce by mixing mayonnaise, finely chopped chipotle peppers, and vinegar in a small bowl until smooth and smoky.
  9. Assemble the burgers by spreading the secret sauce on the toasted buns, then layering with lettuce, tomato slices, onion rings, and the cheesy patties.
  10. Place the top buns on the assembled patties, press down gently, and serve immediately to enjoy the crispy, juicy, and flavorful burger.

Notes

For best flavor, let the burgers rest for a minute after cooking to allow juices to redistribute. Feel free to customize with additional toppings like pickles or bacon.