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### Instructions
**1. Prepare the Patties:**
Start by dividing the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Gently form the beef into patties that are slightly larger than the buns, as they will shrink slightly while cooking. Be careful not to overwork the meat to keep the patties tender. Use your thumb to make a small indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from puffing up during cooking.
Season both sides of the patties generously with salt and pepper.
**2. Cook the Patties:**
Heat a grill or a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. If using a skillet, add a small amount of oil to prevent sticking. Place the patties on the grill or skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the burgers reach your desired level of doneness. For a medium burger, the internal temperature should be around 160°F (71°C).
**3. Add the Cheese:**
During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty and cover the grill or skillet to help the cheese melt. Allow it to melt completely before removing the burgers from the heat.
**4. Toast the Buns:**
While the burgers are cooking, slice the buns in half and lightly toast them on the grill or in a skillet for about 1-2 minutes. This gives the buns a crispy, golden edge that adds texture to the burger.
**5. Assemble the Cheeseburgers:**
Now that the patties and buns are ready, it’s time to assemble your burgers! Spread your choice of condiments (ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, etc.) on the bottom half of each bun. Then, layer the toppings. Start with lettuce, followed by a juicy patty with melted cheese, then add a slice of tomato, onion, and pickles. Top with the other half of the bun.
**6. Serve and Enjoy:**
Serve the ultimate cheeseburger hot with your favorite side dishes, like crispy fries, onion rings, or a fresh salad. Dig in and savor the delicious combination of tender beef, melted cheese, and fresh toppings in every bite.
### Tips for the Ultimate Classic Cheeseburger
1. **Use High-Quality Meat:**
The key to a great cheeseburger is the beef. Opt for an 80/20 blend of ground beef—this means 80% lean meat and 20% fat. The fat is essential for a juicy, flavorful burger that won’t dry out during cooking.
2. **Don’t Overhandle the Meat:**
When forming the patties, avoid overworking the meat. Handling it too much can make the burgers tough and dense. Keep it light and simple to ensure a tender, juicy patty.
3. **Cook on High Heat:**
For a great sear and juicy interior, make sure the grill or skillet is preheated to medium-high before cooking the patties. This ensures that the burgers get a nice caramelized crust without overcooking the inside.
4. **Let the Burgers Rest:**
Once the burgers are done, let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping the burgers moist and flavorful.
5. **Customize Your Toppings:**
The best part about a classic cheeseburger is how customizable it is! Experiment with different cheeses, toppings, and condiments to create your perfect burger. Add crispy bacon, a fried egg, or some sautéed mushrooms to take your cheeseburger to the next level.
### Why The Ultimate Classic Cheeseburger is a Must-Try
The **Ultimate Classic Cheeseburger** is a timeless meal that delivers on flavor, satisfaction, and simplicity. With juicy, perfectly seasoned beef patties, melted cheese, and all the right toppings, it’s no wonder the cheeseburger is a beloved comfort food around the world. This recipe provides a foundation for the perfect burger while leaving plenty of room for customization.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or treating yourself to a homemade burger, this classic cheeseburger will satisfy your cravings every time. It’s the perfect dish for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to weekend BBQs, or even a simple family dinner.
### Conclusion
The **Ultimate Classic Cheeseburger** is everything you want in a burger: juicy, cheesy, and full of flavor. With simple ingredients and straightforward cooking methods, you can create a burger that’s perfect every time. So fire up the grill, gather your favorite toppings, and prepare to indulge in one of the most satisfying meals around. There’s nothing quite like biting into a perfectly cooked cheeseburger—try this recipe today and make your next meal a burger masterpiece!
