[homemade] cheeseburger n fries

#### **Instructions**:

1. **Prepare the Patties**: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Gently form each portion into a patty, making them about ¾ inch thick. Press a small dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent the patty from puffing up while cooking. Season both sides of the patties with salt and pepper.

2. **Cook the Patties**: Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Place the patties on the grill or skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side for medium doneness. If you like your burgers more well-done, cook for an additional minute or two on each side. In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty and cover the grill or skillet to melt the cheese.

3. **Toast the Buns**: While the burgers are cooking, lightly toast the buns on the grill or in a toaster. This adds a little crunch and helps prevent the bun from becoming soggy when you add the toppings.

4. **Assemble the Burger**: Spread your condiments of choice on the bottom half of each bun. Place the cooked patty with melted cheese on top of the bun, then layer on the lettuce, tomato slices, onions, and pickles. Top with the other half of the bun.

5. **Serve**: Serve the burgers immediately while they’re hot and juicy.

### **Crispy Fries Recipe**

#### **Ingredients**:
– 4 large russet potatoes
– Vegetable oil (for frying)
– Salt (to taste)
– Optional seasonings: garlic powder, smoked paprika, or parmesan

#### **Instructions**:

1. **Prepare the Potatoes**: Peel the potatoes (optional) and cut them into ¼ inch thick fries. Soak the potato slices in a large bowl of water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch.

2. **Heat the Oil**: Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 325°F.

3. **First Fry**: Add the potato slices to the hot oil in batches, frying for 3-4 minutes until they’re soft but not browned. Remove the fries from the oil and set them aside to rest.

4. **Increase the Heat**: Increase the oil temperature to 375°F.

5. **Second Fry**: Return the fries to the hot oil in batches and fry for another 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove the fries from the oil and drain them on paper towels.

6. **Season**: While the fries are still hot, sprinkle with salt and any optional seasonings.

7. **Serve**: Serve the fries alongside your homemade cheeseburgers for the perfect meal.

## Conclusion: The Joy of Homemade Comfort Food

Making homemade cheeseburgers and fries is not only a fun and rewarding experience, but it also allows you to customize the meal to suit your tastes. From choosing the perfect beef for your patties to experimenting with different cheese options and toppings, there’s no wrong way to make a cheeseburger. Paired with crispy, golden fries, this meal is a classic that will never go out of style.

So, the next time you’re craving a cheeseburger and fries, skip the fast food and try making this meal at home. With the right ingredients and a little patience, you can create a burger and fries that are far superior to anything you’ll find at a drive-thru. Enjoy every bite of this homemade comfort food!