Introduction
There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a juicy hamburger topped with a rich and zesty sauce. This classic recipe combines the perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring a homemade burger sauce that brings it all together. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a backyard barbecue or simply craving comfort food, these burgers are sure to become a favorite.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the burger sauce:
– ½ cup mayonnaise
– ¼ cup ketchup
– 3 tablespoons dill pickle relish
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
For the patties:
– 2 pounds ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat)
– 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
– 1½ teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
– 1 tablespoon canola oil
– 6 slices American cheese
For serving:
– Brioche hamburger buns (homemade or store-bought)
– Romaine or shredded lettuce
– Sliced tomato
– Sliced red onion
– Dill pickle chips
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Yield
6 burgers
Directions
1. Prepare the burger sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, dill pickle relish, and Dijon mustard until well combined. Set aside.
2. Form the patties: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with the kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Using a wooden spoon or clean hands, mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat. Gently shape the mixture into six 1-inch-thick patties, each approximately the size of the hamburger buns.
3. Cook the patties: Heat the canola oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the patties to the skillet. Cook until lightly charred and cooked to your desired doneness, about 3 to 5 minutes per side. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of American cheese on each patty, allowing it to melt.
4. Assemble the burgers: Toast the brioche buns if desired. Spread a generous amount of the prepared burger sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Place a cooked patty with melted cheese on top. Add lettuce, tomato slices, red onion slices, and dill pickle chips as desired. Cap with the top half of the bun and serve immediately.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the burger sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, dill pickle relish, and Dijon mustard until well combined. Set aside.
Form the patties
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with the kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Using a wooden spoon or clean hands, mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat. Gently shape the mixture into six 1-inch-thick patties, each approximately the size of the hamburger buns.
Cook the patties
Heat the canola oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the patties to the skillet. Cook until lightly charred and cooked to your desired doneness, about 3 to 5 minutes per side. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of American cheese on each patty, allowing it to melt.
Assemble the burgers
Toast the brioche buns if desired. Spread a generous amount of the prepared burger sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Place a cooked patty with melted cheese on top. Add lettuce, tomato slices, red onion slices, and dill pickle chips as desired. Cap with the top half of the bun and serve immediately.
Notes
Burger sauce alternative
Feel free to adjust the quantities of the ingredients in the burger sauce to suit your taste, or experiment with additional ingredients like hot sauce or garlic powder for an extra kick.
Meat handling
When mixing and forming the patties, handle the ground beef gently to maintain its tenderness. Overworking the meat can result in a tougher patty.
Cooking method
If you prefer, the patties can also be grilled over medium-high heat for a smoky flavor. Ensure the grill grates are well-oiled to prevent sticking.
Serving suggestions
Customize your burgers with additional toppings such as avocado, bacon, or different types of cheese to enhance flavor and texture.
Cook techniques
Prepare the burger sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, dill pickle relish, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
Form the patties
In a large bowl, mix ground beef with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper until just combined. Shape the mixture into six 1-inch-thick patties.
Cook the patties
Heat canola oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties until lightly charred and to your desired doneness, about 3 to 5 minutes per side, adding cheese during the last minute to melt.
Assemble the burgers
Toast brioche buns if desired. Spread burger sauce on the bottom half, add the patty with melted cheese, and top with lettuce, tomato, red onion, and dill pickle chips before capping with the top half of the bun.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use any cheese of your choice, such as cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives can be used as substitutes for ground beef.
How can I make the burger patties juicier?
Ensure not to overwork the meat when mixing and form the patties. You can also add a bit of Worcestershire sauce for extra moisture.
Can I prepare the burger sauce in advance?
Yes, the burger sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a few days.
What toppings can I add to my burger?
Feel free to add toppings such as avocado, bacon, jalapeños, or any of your favorite condiments.
Conclusion
This classic burger recipe combines juicy, flavorful beef patties with a creamy, tangy burger sauce for a delectable meal. The combination of fresh vegetables and melty American cheese on soft brioche buns makes for an irresistible experience. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these burgers are sure to impress.
More recipes suggestions and combination
BBQ Bacon Cheeseburgers
Add crispy bacon and a smoky BBQ sauce to your classic burger for an extra layer of flavor.
Mushroom Swiss Burgers
Sauté mushrooms in garlic and butter, then top your patties with melted Swiss cheese for a gourmet touch.
Spicy Jalapeño Burgers
Mix diced jalapeños into the beef patty mixture and top with pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
Caprese Burgers
Top your burger with fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a refreshing Italian twist.
Greek Style Burgers
Incorporate feta cheese and chopped olives into the patties, and serve with tzatziki sauce and cucumber salad.
Veggie Burgers
For a meatless option, create patties using black beans, quinoa, and spices, and top with avocado and salsa.
Breakfast Burgers
Add a fried egg, crispy hashbrowns, and sliced avocado to your burger for a delicious breakfast twist.
