There’s something about certain foods that takes you back to your younger days. For me, one of those favorites: fast food classic cheeseburgers. You know the kind — thin and flat, cooked on a flattop or griddle, maybe served with a special sauce and American cheese. Shoestring fries and a fizzy soda on the side … perfection!
Whether you’re a fan of one of the national chains or prefer a regional favorite, I’m guessing your food memories include something similar, too. Sure, you can always hop in the car and head to the nearest drive-through the next time a craving hits, but I found it surprisingly satisfying to take the time to make my own quarter pound classic cheeseburgers. Top it however you like, but this special sauce is a must-try! If you’re feeding a crowd, wrapping the burgers in thin waxed paper is a nice touch.
- 1 pound Certified Angus Beef ® ground chuck
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon dill pickle relish
- 1/4 teaspoon ancho chili powder
- 1/8 teaspoon celery salt
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons rendered beef fat, bacon fat or clarified butter
- 4 soft burger buns
- 4 slices American cheese
- Optional toppings: pickles, sliced tomato, iceberg lettuce, sliced onion
- In a small mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, ancho chili powder and celery salt; set aside in refrigerator. Portion burgers into 4 lightly packed patties. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Preheat griddle or large cast iron skillet to medium high.
- Add fat/butter to cooking surface and spread evenly. When oil begins to smoke, place burger patties on griddle. Sear approximately 2-3 minutes to develop a mahogany brown caramelized exterior, then flip. Place cut side of buns on griddle to brown, adding more oil if needed.
- Top burger with cheese and finish searing burger (1-2 minutes) until cooked through (160°F internal temperature).
- Smear bottom bun with special sauce and top as desired with pickles, tomato, lettuce, burger, onion and top bun.
Celebrate #BurgerMonth with Classic Cheeseburgers!
For more delightful ideas and additional recipes, visit CertifiedAngusBeef.com.