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–+ servings

Homemade In-N-Out Style Cheeseburger

Jennifer McDonald
This Homemade In-N-Out Style Cheeseburger is a West Coast legend recreated in your kitchen. Inspired by the iconic California fast-food chain, this burger combines juicy beef patties, melty American cheese, tangy 'spread' sauce, and crisp fresh toppings, all sandwiched inside a soft toasted bun. It's the perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and nostalgic indulgence.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 2 burgers
Calories 901 kcal

Ingredients
 
 

For the Burger Patties:

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend) freshly ground, ideally from chuck
  • ½ tsp kosher salt
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

For the Burger Fixings:

  • 2 slices American cheese use high-quality deli-style American cheese for best melt
  • 2 pieces burger buns preferably potato rolls, sliced
  • 1 cup iceberg lettuce shredded
  • 1 medium tomato sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
  • ¼ cup white onion thinly sliced into rings

For the Secret Spread Sauce:

  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish finely chopped
  • ½ tsp white vinegar

Instructions
 

  • Make the Secret Spread: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, and white vinegar. Mix until well combined and refrigerate until needed.
  • Form the Patties: Divide the ground beef into four equal balls (about 4 oz each), then press each into thin patties about 1/4-inch thick. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  • Toast the Buns: In a skillet over medium heat (approximately 350°F / 175°C), toast the cut sides of the buns until golden brown. Set aside.
  • Cook the Patties: Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat (around 400°F / 200°C). Add the patties and cook for 2–3 minutes per side. In the last minute, top two patties with a slice of American cheese and stack an un-cheesed patty underneath to form double burgers.
  • Assemble: Spread sauce on each side of the toasted buns. Layer lettuce, tomato, onion, and the hot stacked patties. Cap with the top bun.

Notes

  • Use a burger press or flat spatula with wax paper to form evenly thin patties.
  • For a more authentic flavor, lightly steam the burger after assembling by covering it briefly with a metal bowl on the griddle.
  • For dietary adaptations, use turkey or plant-based patties and vegan cheese/mayonnaise.

Nutrition

Calories: 901kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 45gFat: 73gSaturated Fat: 25gPolyunsaturated Fat: 14gMonounsaturated Fat: 26gTrans Fat: 3gCholesterol: 194mgSodium: 1410mgPotassium: 1017mgFiber: 3gSugar: 9gVitamin A: 1456IUVitamin C: 14mgCalcium: 301mgIron: 5mg
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