Classic Gourmet Beef Hamburger
This classic gourmet beef hamburger is a celebration of simplicity and bold, satisfying flavor. Inspired by American diner culture and elevated with chef-level techniques, it balances perfectly seasoned, juicy beef with a toasted brioche bun, crisp vegetables, and melty cheese. Whether prepared on a backyard grill or stovetop cast iron, it’s a bite of nostalgia with a touch of culinary finesse.
Ingredients
For the Burger Patties:
- 1.5 pounds ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat) preferably freshly ground chuck
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt to taste
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For Assembling:
- 4 pieces brioche hamburger buns lightly toasted
- 4 slices cheddar cheese sharp or medium, as preferred
- 1 cup green leaf lettuce washed and dried
- 1 large beefsteak tomato sliced into thick rounds
- ½ medium red onion thinly sliced into rings
- 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 4 tablespoons ketchup optional
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, gently form the ground beef into four equal 6-ounce patties. Handle lightly to prevent compacting the meat. Press a slight indentation into the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent bulging during cooking.
- Season each patty on both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper just before cooking.
- Heat a cast iron skillet or grill over medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). Once hot, place the patties onto the surface. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on the first side without pressing down, until juices begin to emerge and a deep brown crust forms.
- Flip the patties and cook an additional 3 minutes. In the final minute, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty and cover loosely with a lid or foil to melt.
- While the patties cook, toast the brioche buns on the grill or a hot skillet, cut side down, until golden and lightly crisped, about 1 minute.
- To assemble, spread mayonnaise on the bottom bun and ketchup on the top (if using). Layer lettuce, tomato, and red onion. Place the cheese-covered patty over the vegetables, then finish with the top bun.
- Serve immediately while the burger is hot and juicy.
Notes
- For an extra boost of umami, mix 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce into the ground beef before forming patties.
- Swap cheddar for blue cheese or Swiss for a gourmet twist.
- To make this gluten-free, serve on lettuce wraps or gluten-free buns.
- Chill patties for 15 minutes before cooking to help them maintain shape.
Nutrition
Calories: 639kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 35gFat: 51gSaturated Fat: 18gPolyunsaturated Fat: 7gMonounsaturated Fat: 19gTrans Fat: 2gCholesterol: 145mgSodium: 1043mgPotassium: 760mgFiber: 1gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 1641IUVitamin C: 14mgCalcium: 171mgIron: 4mg
Did you give this recipe a whirl?We're all ears to hear about your results!