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Classic Juicy Burgers

This burger recipe focuses on grilling juicy, flavorful beef patties to a perfect crust, accompanied by toasted buns, melty cheese, and fresh toppings. The result is a hearty, satisfying meal with a crispy exterior and tender interior, ideal for casual weekends or summer cookouts.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound Ground Beef (80/20) preferably fresh
  • 4 pieces Burger Buns brioche or potato rolls recommended
  • 4 slices Cheddar Cheese or American cheese slices
  • 1 large Tomato sliced
  • Lettuce leaves Lettuce crisp and fresh
  • pickles Pickles sliced
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon Smoked Paprika optional, for depth of flavor
  • 1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil for cooking

Equipment

  • Grill or Cast-Iron Skillet
  • Meat thermometer
  • Spatula
  • Bowl
  • Toothpick or Skewer

Method
 

  1. Gather all your ingredients: fresh ground beef, buns, cheese, and toppings.
  2. Preheat your grill or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot and slightly shimmering, with a faint smoky aroma in the air.
  3. Divide the beef into four equal portions and gently shape each into a ¾ inch thick patty, making a small indentation in the center of each to prevent puffing during cooking.
  4. Season both sides of each patty generously with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika for added depth.
  5. Place the patties on the hot grill or skillet, listening for a satisfying sizzle as they make contact.
  6. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side until the crust is deep golden and slightly charred, then flip carefully with a spatula.
  7. Cook the second side for another 3-4 minutes, until the juices run clear when pressed and the crust is well-developed.
  8. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty, then cover briefly to melt into a smooth, gooey layer.
  9. While the burgers cook, lightly toast the buns on the grill or skillet for about 30 seconds until golden and slightly crispy.
  10. Assemble the burgers by placing a lettuce leaf and tomato slice on the bottom bun, followed by the cheesy patty, pickles, and then the top bun.
  11. Serve immediately while hot, with the crackle of the crust and juicy interior making each bite satisfying.

Notes

Ensure not to press down on the patties during cooking to retain juices. Rest the burgers for a minute before serving for optimal juiciness.