Here’s the Ultimate Homemade Cheeseburger Recipe — juicy, flavorful, and perfectly stacked with melty cheese and classic toppings. This burger captures that classic American diner-style vibe, but with gourmet-level flavor right from your kitchen.
🍔 The Ultimate Homemade Cheeseburger
👥 Serves: 4
⏱️ Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 10–12 mins
🧾 Ingredients
For the patties:
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1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 fat ratio is ideal for juiciness)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper
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1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
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1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
Cheese (pick your favorite):
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4 slices cheddar (classic), or Swiss, American, pepper jack, etc.
Buns & Extras:
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4 burger buns (brioche or sesame recommended)
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Butter for toasting buns
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Lettuce leaves
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Tomato slices
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Red onion slices
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Pickles
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Ketchup, mustard, mayo, or your favorite sauce
👨🍳 Instructions
1. Shape the patties:
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Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (~4 oz each).
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Shape into flat patties about 4–5 inches wide (they’ll shrink slightly when cooked).
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Make a small dimple in the center of each with your thumb — this prevents puffing during cooking.
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Season both sides generously with salt and pepper (and garlic powder/Worcestershire if using).
2. Toast the buns:
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Slice buns and lightly butter the cut sides.
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Toast on a skillet or grill until golden — set aside.
3. Cook the patties:
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Heat a cast iron skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
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Cook burgers for 3–4 minutes per side for medium, flipping once.
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Add cheese during the last minute of cooking and cover (with a lid or metal bowl) to melt.
4. Build your burger:
Here’s a classic stack order (from bottom up):
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Bottom bun
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Mayo/ketchup/mustard (optional)
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Lettuce
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Tomato slice
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Cheeseburger patty
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Pickles & onion
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Top bun
Feel free to build it your way!
🔥 Tips for Burger Perfection:
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Don’t overwork the meat when shaping patties — it’ll stay more tender.
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Use cold beef and a hot pan for the perfect sear.
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For a smoky flavor, grill the patties over charcoal or wood chips.
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Want it extra juicy? Add a pat of butter or beef tallow on top before melting the cheese.
🍟 Perfect Pairings:
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Classic fries, sweet potato wedges, onion rings, or coleslaw
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A cold beer or soda and a big napkin 😄