Gourmet Take on Wendy’s Dave’s Single
Inspired by the American fast-food classic, Wendy’s Dave’s Single, this gourmet recipe elevates the iconic burger into a refined homemade experience. With a juicy ground beef patty, melty American cheese, crisp lettuce, pickles, and tangy mayo-ketchup sauce all tucked in a toasted brioche bun, this is nostalgia redefined. It’s perfect for burger aficionados who want that signature flavor with a fresh, homemade flair.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds 80/20 ground beef chuck for juicy, flavorful patties
- 4 pieces brioche hamburger buns lightly toasted
- 4 slices American cheese preferably sharp yellow American cheese
- 1 medium vine-ripened tomato sliced
- 4 leaves green leaf lettuce washed and patted dry
- 8 slices dill pickles or more, as preferred
- 0.25 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard optional, for tang
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt to season the patties
- 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper to season the patties
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter for toasting buns
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, and yellow mustard until well combined. Set aside or refrigerate until needed.
- Form and Season Patties: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Gently shape each into a patty about 4-5 inches in diameter and slightly thicker on the edges. Season both sides generously with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
- Toast the Buns: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a bit of unsalted butter and toast the brioche buns, cut side down, for 1-2 minutes or until golden brown. Set aside.
- Cook the Patties: In the same skillet over medium-high heat, cook the beef patties for 3-4 minutes on the first side. Flip once crusty and brown, then add a slice of American cheese to each. Cook another 2-3 minutes, until the cheese melts and the patties reach medium doneness (internal temp 160°F / 71°C).
- Assemble the Burgers: Spread the sauce on both cut sides of the toasted buns. On the bottom bun, layer in order: lettuce leaf, cooked beef patty with cheese, tomato slice, pickle slices, and finish with the top bun. Press lightly to seal.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the burgers hot and fresh off the skillet. Add a side of crispy fries or a simple coleslaw for the full diner experience.
Notes
- To make the patties more uniform, press them using a burger press or sandwich between two parchment sheets and gently flatten with a plate.
- For added depth, grill the patties over charcoal for a smoky flavor.
- Substitute American cheese with sharp cheddar for a bolder taste.
- Use iceberg lettuce for added crunch if green leaf isn’t available.
Nutrition
Calories: 688kcalCarbohydrates: 11gProtein: 35gFat: 56gSaturated Fat: 21gPolyunsaturated Fat: 8gMonounsaturated Fat: 20gTrans Fat: 2gCholesterol: 157mgSodium: 3732mgPotassium: 965mgFiber: 4gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 2241IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 432mgIron: 4mg
Did you give this recipe a whirl?We're all ears to hear about your results!