Name: Classic Hamburger
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds ground chuck (80/20); 1 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon salt; 6 hamburger buns (toasted, if desired); 6 slices American cheese (or your favorite cheese)

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Sink your teeth into the ultimate crowd-pleasing Classic Hamburger that comes together in just 25 minutes. This juicy, perfectly-seasoned burger delivers restaurant-quality taste right from your kitchen, packed with 29g of protein and topped with melty cheese. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or craving a satisfying weeknight dinner, this fool-proof recipe guarantees to deliver that nostalgic, mouthwatering experience every single time. From the golden-brown crust to the tender center, each bite is pure homemade bliss.

Classic Hamburger Ingredients

Ground Chuck (80/20): 1½ pounds, perfect meat-to-fat ratio for juicy burgers
Seasoning Mix:
- 1½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp light brown sugar – adds subtle sweetness
- ¼ tsp each: garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper
Classic Toppings:
- 6 hamburger buns – toast them for extra crunch
- 6 slices American cheese – melts beautifully
- Fresh lettuce leaves
- Beefsteak tomato slices
- Thinly sliced red or white onion
- Pickle slices

Preparation Instructions

Season Prep: Mix all spices in a bowl until well combined
Shape Patties: Create 6 equal ½-inch thick patties, making them slightly wider than buns
Create Dimple: Make a thumb indentation in center of each patty – prevents puffing while cooking
Grill Setup: Heat grill to medium-high heat for perfect searing
Cooking Time: Grill 3-4 minutes per side, indent-side up first
Cheese Finish: Add cheese during final minute of cooking
Rest & Serve: Let patties rest briefly, then assemble with favorite toppings

Cooking Techniques

Hey there, burger lover! Let’s talk about making these patties perfect. That thumbprint trick in the middle of your burger is pure magic – it stops the burgers from puffing up like balloons and helps them cook evenly. Want a pro tip? Pop an ice cube in that little dent while the grill heats up. It keeps your burgers nice and juicy! Just remember to handle the meat gently when forming your patties – think of it like petting a kitten, nice and soft. Too much handling makes tough burgers, and nobody wants that!

Perfect Temperature Guide

Getting that just-right burger can be as simple as watching the clock and checking the temperature. For medium burgers, you’re looking for 160°F inside. Don’t have a meat thermometer? Here’s a handy trick: gently press the burger with your spatula. If it’s medium, it should feel like pressing the tip of your nose. But for food safety, I really recommend using a thermometer – it takes the guesswork out!

Topping Ideas & Combinations

Let’s build your dream burger! Start with the classics – crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and tangy onions. But why stop there? Try these awesome combos:
– The Mushroom Lover: Sautéed mushrooms + Swiss cheese + caramelized onions
– The Spice Master: Jalapeños + pepper jack cheese + crispy bacon
– The Ring Leader: Onion rings + BBQ sauce + cheddar cheese
Mix and match your favorites, and don’t forget to toast those buns – it makes such a difference!

Storage Tips

Made too many burgers? No problem! Cooked patties stay good in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. You can also make the patties ahead of time – just stack them with wax paper between each one, wrap well, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, thaw them overnight in the fridge.