Gourmet Classic Hamburger
This gourmet hamburger is a tribute to the quintessential American backyard classic, elevated by a few chef-inspired additions. With a juicy, perfectly seasoned beef patty, sharp cheddar, and a house-made garlic aioli, this burger blends comfort and sophistication in each bite. Ideal for weekends or upscale cookouts, it's where culinary craft meets crave-worthy indulgence.
Ingredients
For the Garlic Aioli:
- ½ cup mayonnaise preferably full-fat for richness
- 1 clove garlic finely grated or minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
- ¼ tsp sea salt or to taste
For the Burgers:
- 1 ½ lb ground beef 80/20 blend for optimal juiciness
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper freshly ground
- 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese aged for flavor
- 4 pieces brioche hamburger buns lightly toasted
- 1 cup butter lettuce washed and dried
- 1 medium heirloom tomato sliced
- ½ medium red onion thinly sliced
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, grated garlic, lemon juice, and sea salt until smooth. Cover and chill for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Preheat a grill or heavy skillet over medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). Meanwhile, gently form the ground beef into 4 equal patties, about 3/4-inch thick. Avoid overworking the meat to keep it tender.
- Season both sides of the patties with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Grill the patties for 3–4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or to your desired doneness. Add a slice of cheddar to each patty during the last minute of cooking, covering with a lid to melt.
- Lightly toast brioche buns on the grill or pan for 30–60 seconds until golden.
- To assemble, spread garlic aioli on both bun halves. Layer lettuce, tomato slice, cheese-topped patty, red onion, and crown with the bun top.
Notes
- For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey or chicken and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to maintain moisture.
- Try caramelized onions or pickled jalapeños for a flavor boost.
- You can make the garlic aioli up to 2 days in advance.
Nutrition
Calories: 756kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 37gFat: 65gSaturated Fat: 22gPolyunsaturated Fat: 14gMonounsaturated Fat: 22gTrans Fat: 2gCholesterol: 162mgSodium: 1209mgPotassium: 619mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 979IUVitamin C: 7mgCalcium: 245mgIron: 4mg
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