Carl’s Jr. Super Star with Cheese - Gourmet Copycat Version

Inspired by one of America’s most iconic fast-food burgers, this gourmet homage to the Carl’s Jr. Super Star with Cheese delivers a made-from-scratch experience of bold flavors, juicy double patties, melty cheese, and that nostalgic crunch of fresh toppings. It brings the joy of drive-thru indulgence into your own kitchen with a culinary twist rooted in technique and quality ingredients.

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Prep Time 25

Cook Time 20

Total Time 45

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings burgers

Calories 901 kcal

Ingredients

For the Burger Patties:

1 lb 80/20 ground beef chuck fresh if possible, not frozen
½ tsp kosher salt to season the meat
¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper

For the Burger Assembly:

4 slices American cheese use quality deli-style for best melt
2 pieces sesame seed hamburger buns preferably brioche-style for a slightly sweet touch
2 large green leaf lettuce leaves
4 medium tomato slices firm, ripe tomatoes like vine-ripened or beefsteak
4 pieces dill pickle slices preferably crinkle-cut for extra crunch
½ small yellow onion sliced into thin rings
2 tbsp ketchup
2 tbsp mayonnaise

Instructions

Prepare the Burger Patties: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Form into thin, slightly larger than bun-sized patties — they’ll shrink during cooking. Avoid overworking the meat, and optionally press a shallow dimple in the center to maintain shape while cooking. Season the top side of each patty with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
Cook the Patties: Heat a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat (about 375°F / 190°C). Place patties seasoned-side down, then season the other side. Sear each patty for 2–3 minutes on the first side until a deep caramelized crust forms. Flip and top each with a cheese slice. Cook an additional 1–2 minutes until cheese fully melts and burgers reach desired doneness (medium recommended).
Toast the Buns: While patties are finishing, toast the cut sides of each bun in a separate pan or buttered griddle until golden brown and crispy, about 1–2 minutes.
Assemble the Burgers: Start with the bottom bun: add 1 tablespoon mayonnaise, 2 pickle slices, and a leaf of lettuce. Place a cooked patty with cheese on top, followed by thin tomato slices, thinly sliced onion, the second cheesy patty, 1 tablespoon ketchup, and finally the top bun.

Notes

For a spiced-up twist, add a few dashes of hot sauce to the mayonnaise.
Substitute lettuce with shredded iceberg for a crunchier texture.
To speed up cooking, use a grill press to sear patties evenly and quickly.

Nutrition

Calories: 901kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 50gFat: 70gSaturated Fat: 27gPolyunsaturated Fat: 8gMonounsaturated Fat: 26gTrans Fat: 3gCholesterol: 211mgSodium: 1698mgPotassium: 1355mgFiber: 4gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 3620IUVitamin C: 37mgCalcium: 520mgIron: 6mg

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