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Classic Comforting Traditional Hamburgers

classic comforting traditional hamburgers - featured image

A straightforward and reliable hamburger recipe perfect for backyard BBQs, featuring juicy patties, simple seasonings, and classic toppings for nostalgic flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • 4 hamburger buns (brioche or potato buns recommended)
  • 4 cheese slices (optional; American, cheddar, or preferred melty cheese)
  • Lettuce leaves
  • Tomato slices
  • Pickles
  • Thinly sliced red onion
  • Ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise (condiments as preferred)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, gently combine ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Avoid overmixing.
  2. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions (about 4 ounces or 113 g each). Shape each into a round, flat patty about ¾ inch (2 cm) thick. Press a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb.
  3. Preheat grill or skillet to medium-high heat (around 375°F / 190°C). Lightly oil the grates or pan.
  4. Place patties on the grill or pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes on the first side without moving them.
  5. Flip carefully and cook another 3-5 minutes. If using cheese, place a slice on each patty during the last minute and cover to melt.
  6. Check doneness aiming for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
  7. While patties rest, toast hamburger buns cut-side down on the grill or pan until golden and slightly crisp (about 2 minutes).
  8. Assemble burgers by spreading preferred condiments on buns, layering lettuce, tomato, patty, pickles, and onion slices. Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.

Notes

Do not overwork the meat to keep patties tender. Press a thumb indentation in the center of each patty to prevent puffing. Flip patties only once and toast buns to prevent sogginess. Let patties rest before assembling to retain juices.

Nutrition

Keywords: classic hamburger, backyard BBQ, traditional burger, easy burger recipe, grilled hamburger, comfort food