Why You’ll Love this Old Fashioned Hamburger Recipe
Why will you love this Old Fashioned Hamburger Recipe? Well, let me tell you, it’s a game-changer!
Imagine biting into a perfectly juicy burger, the kind that oozes flavor with each mouthful. The combination of seasoned beef, melted cheddar, and caramelized onions creates an explosion of taste that dances on your palate.
Plus, the crunch of fresh lettuce and the zing from dill pickles elevate it to a whole new level. I can’t forget the toasted sesame seed bun that holds it all together—it’s essential!
You’ll find this recipe is straightforward, yet it delivers a gourmet experience right at home. Trust me, once you try it, you won’t want to eat a regular burger again!
Ingredients of Old Fashioned Hamburger
When it comes to whipping up an unforgettable Old Fashioned Hamburger, it all starts with the right ingredients. You want to make certain you have everything on hand before you embark on the cooking process. Trust me, nothing is worse than realizing you’re missing that vital element—like the buns or the cheddar—right when you’re ready to grill.
So, let’s gather all the goodies you’ll need to create this mouthwatering masterpiece.
Here’s your ingredient list for the Old Fashioned Hamburger:
- 1 lb ground beef (with lots of fat for juiciness)
- Iceberg lettuce (fresh and crisp)
- Tomatoes (sliced, of course)
- Mayonnaise (for that creamy texture)
- Yellow onion (sliced for caramelization)
- Good quality dill pickle slices (the zingy crunch)
- Season-All salt (for flavoring)
- Kosher salt (to enhance taste)
- Good quality hamburger bun with sesame seeds (the essential foundation)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for gooey goodness)
Now that you have your ingredients, let’s talk a bit about them. Picking the right ground beef is key. You want something with a good amount of fat—around 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio is ideal. This guarantees your burger stays juicy throughout the cooking process.
And don’t skimp on the quality of your buns. A good sesame seed bun can make all the difference, providing that perfect texture and flavor to complement the burger. As for the toppings, fresh is best. I always recommend using crisp lettuce and ripe tomatoes, as they add that fresh crunch and vibrant flavor.
How to Make Old Fashioned Hamburger
Making an Old Fashioned Hamburger is one of those culinary experiences that feels both comforting and thrilling. First, you’ll want to grab that 1 lb of ground beef—make sure it’s got a good amount of fat because, let’s face it, we need juicy burgers, not dry hockey pucks.
Shape the beef into four balls, weighing about 1/4 lb each, and then flatten them out to about 1/4 inch thick. Now, here’s where the magic starts: sprinkle some Season-All salt over those patties. It’s like giving them a little shower of flavor before they hit the grill.
Now, let’s talk about onions. Grab your yellow onion, slice it up, and toss it into a medium-hot pan. Add a pinch of kosher salt and let those beauties cook for about 10 minutes until they’re all caramelized and golden brown.
While the onions are working their magic, fire up your grill. Once it’s nice and hot, place those seasoned burgers on the grill. Cook them for about 3 minutes on one side, then flip them over. After 2 more minutes, here’s the fun part: sprinkle a palmful of shredded cheddar cheese on top of each burger and let it melt for the last minute of cooking.
While your burgers are sizzling away with that gooey cheese, it’s time to work on the buns. Toast those good quality sesame seed hamburger buns until they’re golden brown and spread a generous amount of mayonnaise on the bottom half.
Now, layer on a crisp leaf of iceberg lettuce, followed by tomato slices and those tangy dill pickle slices. You want a nice crunch and a burst of flavor in every bite.
Once the burgers are done, slide them right onto the prepared buns and top them with those deliciously caramelized onions. And there you have it—your Old Fashioned Hamburger, ready to be devoured. Just try not to drool all over it. Enjoy!
Old Fashioned Hamburger Substitutions & Variations
Although the classic Old Fashioned Hamburger is already a crowd-pleaser, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to make it your own.
For a leaner option, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. If you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or blue cheese for a unique flavor twist.
You can also swap out the bun for lettuce wraps or whole-grain options. Add some flair with toppings like avocado, jalapeños, or caramelized onions.
Don’t forget to try different condiments; a spicy aioli or barbecue sauce can really elevate your burger.
Finally, if you want to make it vegetarian, opt for a black bean or portobello mushroom patty. The possibilities are endless!
What to Serve with Old Fashioned Hamburger
What goes best with an Old Fashioned Hamburger? I love pairing my burgers with classic sides that elevate the whole meal.
Crispy French fries are always a hit—they’re the perfect blend of salty and crunchy. If I’m feeling a bit healthier, I opt for a fresh garden salad, drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette.
Coleslaw also makes a great companion, adding that creamy crunch that complements the juicy burger. For a fun twist, I sometimes serve potato salad, which gives a hearty touch.
And don’t forget about pickles! Their tanginess balances the richness of the cheddar-stuffed patty.
Finally, a cold beverage, like a classic cola or a revitalizing iced tea, rounds out the meal beautifully. Enjoy your feast!
Additional Tips & Notes
When you’re enjoying an Old Fashioned Hamburger, a few extra tips can take your burger experience to the next level.
First, don’t skip the seasoning on your beef; it really enhances the flavor. I like to let the patties rest for a few minutes after shaping them—this helps maintain juiciness.
For an extra kick, try adding your favorite hot sauce to the mayo. If you can, use a cast-iron skillet for the onions; they caramelize beautifully.
Finally, don’t rush the toasting of your buns; a light golden color adds a perfect crunch.
Serve your burgers with crispy fries or a fresh salad, and you’ve got a delicious meal that everyone will love. Enjoy every bite!