All American Cheese Burger
You can’t beat an All American Cheese Burger. This iconic dish is perfect for summer barbecues, casual family dinners, or game-day gatherings. Topped with ripe heirloom tomatoes and melty American cheese, this burger is sure to impress. Its juicy beef patty and fresh toppings create a mouthwatering experience that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Juicy and Flavorful: The combination of ground beef and American cheese creates a rich taste that satisfies every burger lover.
- Versatile Toppings: Customize your burger with various toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, ketchup, and mustard to suit your preferences.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, this recipe fits seamlessly into any event.
- Crowd-Pleaser: It’s hard to resist an All American Cheese Burger; your friends and family will keep coming back for seconds!
Tools and Preparation
Getting the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Gather the essential equipment before you start making your All American Cheese Burger.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Meat thermometer
- Spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: Provides the perfect heat for cooking burgers evenly while adding that smoky flavor.
- Meat thermometer: Helps you ensure that the burgers are cooked to your desired doneness without overcooking.
- Spatula: A sturdy spatula makes flipping burgers easy and prevents them from falling apart on the grill.
Ingredients
For the Burger
- 6 La Brea Bakery Take & Bake Torta Rolls
- 2 large ripe heirloom tomatoes, sliced into ¼-inch-thick slices
- 1 large red onion, sliced into 1/8-inch-thick slices
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 ½ pounds ground beef
- 6 slices American cheese
- 6 lettuce leaves
- Ketchup, to taste
- Mayonnaise, to taste
- Mustard, to taste
How to Make All American Cheese Burger
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Lightly oil the grill grates and preheat them over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Prepare Vegetables
- Salt and pepper the tomato slices and onion rings to taste. Set aside.
- Brush the cut side of each torta roll with olive oil.
Step 3: Shape the Patties
Form the ground beef into six oval patties, being careful not to overwork the meat. Season each patty with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Grill the Patties
Place the patties on the hot grill:
1. Cook for about 4 minutes per side for rare.
2. Cook for about 5 minutes per side for medium-rare.
3. Cook for about 6 minutes per side for medium.
Just before removing them from the grill, place a slice of cheese on each patty to melt.
Step 5: Toast the Rolls
While the burgers are grilling, place the rolls cut side down on the grill. Toast lightly for about 2 minutes until golden brown.
Step 6: Assemble Your Burgers
On the bottom half of each roll, place lettuce leaves and tomato slices. Top with grilled patties and red onions. Finish by placing the tops of the rolls on each burger. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious All American Cheese Burger!
How to Serve All American Cheese Burger
The All American Cheese Burger is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit any palate. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your burger experience.
Classic Toppings
- Lettuce and Tomato: Fresh lettuce and juicy tomato add a refreshing crunch.
- Onions: Add sliced red onions for a bit of bite and sweetness.
- Pickles: Tangy pickles provide a nice contrast to the richness of the beef.
Sauces Galore
- Ketchup: A classic choice that brings sweetness to every bite.
- Mustard: Adds a zesty kick that complements the flavors beautifully.
- Mayonnaise: Creamy mayo can enhance the overall texture of your burger.
Cheese Variations
- American Cheese: The traditional choice that melts perfectly over the patty.
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar offers a more robust flavor profile.
- Blue Cheese: For those who enjoy bold flavors, blue cheese adds a unique twist.
Bun Choices
- Toasted Buns: Lightly toasted buns enhance the overall texture and flavor.
- Whole Wheat Rolls: A healthier option that still provides good taste.
How to Perfect All American Cheese Burger
Creating the perfect All American Cheese Burger involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your burgers turn out great every time.
- Use High-Quality Beef: Opt for ground beef with a higher fat content, such as 80/20, for juicier burgers.
- Don’t Overwork the Meat: Form patties gently to keep them tender and juicy; avoid excessive handling.
- Preheat Your Grill Properly: A hot grill is essential for achieving that beautiful sear on your burgers.
- Let Burgers Rest After Grilling: Allowing cooked burgers to rest for a few minutes keeps them moist when you bite in.
Best Side Dishes for All American Cheese Burger
Pairing side dishes with your All American Cheese Burger can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some fantastic options to consider.
- French Fries: Crispy fries are a classic side that pairs perfectly with any burger.
- Coleslaw: This crunchy salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the burger.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is hearty and complements the flavors of grilled meat well.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn adds a sweet touch that enhances summer meals.
- Baked Beans: Savory baked beans bring a rich flavor and warmth alongside your burger.
- Onion Rings: Crispy onion rings offer an indulgent crunch that’s hard to resist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your All American Cheese Burger, avoid these common mistakes for the best results.
- Overworking the meat – When shaping your patties, be gentle. Overworking can result in tough burgers. Handle the ground beef lightly to keep them juicy.
- Skipping seasoning – Don’t forget to season your patties and vegetables! A sprinkle of salt and pepper before grilling enhances flavor significantly.
- Incorrect grill temperature – Ensure your grill is hot enough before adding the patties. This helps achieve a nice sear and prevents sticking.
- Ignoring cheese melt time – Add cheese just before the burgers are done cooking. This allows it to melt perfectly over the patty, adding creaminess.
- Not toasting the buns – Toasting your torta rolls can elevate your burger experience. Place them cut side down on the grill for a delightful crunch.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover All American Cheese Burger in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing All American Cheese Burger
- Wrap each burger individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- You can freeze them for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating All American Cheese Burger
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat burgers for about 10-15 minutes, covered with foil.
- Microwave – Place the burger on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
- Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes per side, or until heated thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make my All American Cheese Burger juicier?
Adding moisture-rich ingredients like Worcestershire sauce or using higher-fat ground beef can enhance juiciness.
Can I customize my All American Cheese Burger toppings?
Absolutely! Try adding crispy bacon, avocado, or different cheeses for unique flavors.
What sides go well with an All American Cheese Burger?
Classic sides like fries, coleslaw, or potato salad pair perfectly with this burger.
How do I achieve a perfect grill mark on my All American Cheese Burger?
Make sure your grill is preheated. Avoid moving the patties too soon; let them sear before flipping.
Can I use alternative buns for my All American Cheese Burger?
Yes! Feel free to use lettuce wraps, gluten-free buns, or even portobello mushrooms as creative alternatives.
Final Thoughts
The All American Cheese Burger is not only a timeless classic but also highly versatile. You can customize it with various toppings and sauces to fit your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe at home; it’s perfect for any gathering or casual dinner!
All American Cheese Burger
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in the quintessential All American Cheese Burger, a mouthwatering delight that epitomizes summer cookouts and casual gatherings. This burger features a juicy beef patty, melted American cheese, and fresh toppings like heirloom tomatoes and crisp lettuce. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this classic dish that will leave your guests asking for seconds. Whether you’re grilling for family or hosting a barbecue with friends, this burger is versatile enough for any occasion. Customize it with your favorite toppings and sauces for a truly personalized experience.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20)
- 6 slices American cheese
- 6 La Brea Bakery Take & Bake Torta Rolls
- 2 large heirloom tomatoes
- 1 large red onion
- Lettuce leaves
- Ketchup, mayonnaise, mustard to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the grill over medium-high heat.
- Season tomato and onion slices with salt and pepper. Brush torta rolls with olive oil.
- Form beef into six oval patties; season each with salt and pepper.
- Grill patties for 4-6 minutes per side, adding cheese just before removing them.
- Toast rolls cut side down on the grill for about 2 minutes until golden brown.
- Assemble burgers with lettuce, tomato, grilled patty, onions, and desired sauces.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger (approx. 250g)
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 39g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
