Bushra Griffith
There are many ways to elevate a simple cheeseburger patty. A classic cheeseburger with pickles, onion, and special sauce is always a good choice, but you can also add ingredients to the raw patty mix. Try incorporating crushed red pepper, shaved serrano or jalapeno peppers, chopped scallions or cilantro, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, diced red or white onion, or shredded or crumbled cheese. Breadcrumbs are also a great addition to the mix, ensuring the patties stay moist and are impossible to dry out. For a simple seasoning, a light smear of oil with a liberal amount of salt and pepper will form a delicious crust.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Patty | Thick or thin |
| Patty Ingredients | Ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, cayenne pepper, chia seeds, crushed red pepper, serrano peppers, jalapeno peppers, scallions, cilantro, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, diced red or white onion, shredded or crumbled cheese, ketchup, mustard, relish |
| Patty Cooking Method | Griddle, grill, stovetop, oven |
| Patty Cooking Time | Thick patties: 5-6 minutes per side; Thin patties: 2-3 minutes per side |
| Patty Crust | Crust formation is important for a good patty; use a stiff spatula or a bench scraper to scrape up the browned bits |
| Patty Toppings | Cheese, spinach, old cheddar cheese, onions, pickles, mustard, mayo, jalapenos, red onion, raw onion, ketchup, relish, homemade pickled cucumbers, onions, special sauce, tomato, crispy fried onions, BBQ sauce, red onions, butter-grilled buns, onion rings, sweet potato fries |
| Patty Serving Suggestions | Serve with a side of cajun fries, shoestring fries, or baked french fries |
| Patty Storage | Can be frozen for up to four months |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Cheese type and thickness
The cheese you choose for your cheeseburger depends on your taste preferences and the type of meat you use. If you're using high-quality meat, you may want to opt for a cheese that acts as a supporting character without pulling focus, such as American cheese. American cheese is a classic choice for cheeseburgers and is known for its salty, melty texture. It's also easy to find and typically affordable. If you want to elevate your cheeseburger, you could try a smoked variety of American cheese or opt for a thicker slice, such as Kraft Deli Deluxe American.
On the other hand, if you're using more affordable or bland meat, you might want to choose a cheese that takes centre stage in terms of flavour. Options like cheddar, Swiss, blue cheese, or gouda can add a unique and indulgent twist to your cheeseburger. For example, Swiss cheese has a distinctive yet mellow taste and pairs well with bacon or sautéed mushrooms. Blue cheese is pleasantly pungent and creamy, and it's often used in upscale steak restaurants. A little bit of blue cheese goes a long way, so adjust the amount to your liking.
If you're feeling adventurous, you can experiment with different types of cheese on your cheeseburger. Some options to consider are Gruyere (including smoked Gruyere), Muester, Havarti, Pepperjack, and flavoured cheeses like "Caramelized Onion Jack" or "Horseradish Cheddar". You can also try mixing and matching different cheeses to create unique flavour combinations.
When it comes to cheese thickness, there isn't a definitive rule. However, it's worth noting that thinner slices of cheese will melt faster and more evenly than thicker slices. If you're using a stronger-flavoured cheese, you might prefer thinner slices to avoid overwhelming the other flavours in your cheeseburger. Ultimately, the thickness of the cheese slice is a matter of personal preference and may depend on the overall composition of your burger.
Creating the Perfect Cheese Tray
You may want to see also
When to add cheese
There are various approaches to adding cheese to your cheeseburger patty, and the right time to do so is the subject of much debate. Some people believe that adding cheese while the burger is still on the grill is a mistake, as the cheese can melt too much, slide off, or burn. Instead, they suggest that you should add cheese to the top bun after the burger is cooked. This allows the cheese to melt slightly from the residual heat of the patty, without becoming a slippery mess.
If you want your cheese melted, one approach is to add the cheese after flipping the patty, and then cover the burger to allow the heat to melt the cheese. This method works well with supermarket chicken burgers, but may not be as effective with beef burgers.
The type of cheese you are using can also determine when you should add it to your burger. For example, American cheese melts quickly and is more likely to stay on the burger. Cheddar, on the other hand, takes longer to melt and can become greasy if left too long. In this case, you may want to add the cheese immediately after flipping the patty, or even finish it off in the microwave if needed.
If you are cooking multiple burgers at once, using the broiler function can add quick heat to melt the cheese without overcooking the meat. Alternatively, you can add a small amount of water to the pan and trap the steam with a lid to speed up the melting process.
Ultimately, the best time to add cheese to your cheeseburger patty may come down to personal preference and practice. Some people even prefer their cheese unmelted, adding it as the final step after the burger is fully assembled.
Black Beans and Cheese: The Perfect Pairing
You may want to see also
Patty thickness
The thickness of a burger patty is a matter of personal preference and depends on the cooking method and the type of burger being made. For example, thin patties of about 1/4 inch are ideal for smash burgers, whereas thicker patties are preferable for grilling over an open flame.
Thicker patties, ranging from 3/4 inch to 1 inch in thickness, are recommended by several sources for a juicier burger with more caramelization on the outside. These thicker patties typically weigh between 6 and 10 ounces and are said to retain more juices during cooking, resulting in a more flavorful burger. Additionally, thicker patties allow for a longer cooking time, which can enhance the flavor through caramelization without drying out the meat.
On the other hand, thin patties have their own advantages. They cook faster, making them ideal for a quick meal. Thin patties are also preferred when stacking multiple patties or loading up on toppings, as they provide a better balance of meat and other ingredients in each bite. Thin patties are typically around 1/4 inch thick and weigh about 3 to 5 ounces.
When forming patties, it's important to not overwork the meat, as this can make the texture too dense. For thick patties, a weight of around 220 grams is recommended, while thin patties are usually around 150 grams.
Ultimately, the ideal thickness of a burger patty depends on personal preference and the desired cooking method. Both thick and thin patties have their unique advantages, and experimenting with different thicknesses can help determine which style is preferred.
Eggs Benedict: To Cheese or Not to Cheese?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Patty cooking time
The cooking time for a patty depends on various factors, including the type of cheese, thickness, and temperature. It is important to note that there is no single right way to cook a cheeseburger patty, and different methods can be explored to find what works best for you.
When cooking a patty on a stovetop, it is recommended to heat the skillet to a medium temperature before adding the patty. This helps prevent sticking. For a non-stick pan, a quick spray of cooking spray should be sufficient, while a stainless steel or cast-iron pan may require a light coating of oil. It is also suggested to season the patty with salt and pepper before placing it in the pan.
The cooking time for a patty can vary depending on the desired level of doneness. For a medium-rare burger, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side on a propane three-burner grill may be sufficient. However, for a thicker patty or a well-done burger, a longer cooking time of 6-8 minutes per side is recommended. It is important to ensure that the beef reaches a temperature of at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit before serving.
To add cheese to the patty, it is typically added after flipping the burger. To speed up the melting process, adding a small amount of water to the pan and covering it with a lid can help trap the steam and melt the cheese evenly. Alternatively, if cooking multiple patties, the broiler function can provide direct heat to melt the cheese without overcooking the meat.
Some people prefer their cheese not melted on a burger, in which case the cheese can be added as the last ingredient after assembling the burger. The type of cheese can also impact the melting process, with American cheese melting quickly and cheddar taking longer to melt.
Beet-iful Vegan Cheese: A Tasty, Healthy Twist
You may want to see also
Toppings
When it comes to toppings, the possibilities are endless. You can keep it classic with sliced tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and onions. Or, you can get creative and experiment with different combinations. Here are some topping ideas to inspire your next cheeseburger creation:
Vegetables:
- Raw or fried onions: Red onions, white onions, or scallions can add a sharp kick to your burger.
- Pickles: Dill or bread and butter pickles add a tangy crunch.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach leaves add colour and nutrition.
- Jalapenos: For those who like it spicy, add some sliced jalapenos.
Condiments:
- Ketchup: A classic, sweet and tangy tomato-based sauce.
- Mustard: From classic yellow mustard to spicy brown or Dijon, there are many options to choose from.
- Mayonnaise: Creamy and rich, mayonnaise is a popular choice.
- BBQ sauce: A sweet and smoky sauce that pairs well with burgers.
- Special sauce: Make your own with a mix of mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, and seasonings.
Cheeses:
- American cheese: A classic choice that melts easily and has a mild flavour.
- Cheddar: A sharp or mild cheddar adds a nice tang and melts well when shredded.
- Colby Jack: A blend of Colby and Monterey Jack cheeses, this variety adds a nice kick of flavour.
- Mozzarella: For a stringy, stretchy cheese pull, mozzarella is a great option.
- Blue Cheese: Crumble some blue cheese on top for a strong, tangy flavour.
Other toppings:
- Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a salty, savoury element.
- Crispy fried onions: For extra texture and flavour, top your burger with crispy fried onions.
- Relish: Sweet or dill relish can add a refreshing twist.
- Sliced avocado: For a creamy, savoury touch, add some sliced avocado.
Remember, the key to a great cheeseburger is finding the right balance of toppings that complement each other and enhance the flavour of the patty. Don't be afraid to experiment and find your perfect combination!
Healthy Cheese Choices for Your Sandwich
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Popular cheese options for cheeseburger patties include American cheese, cheddar, gouda, mozzarella, blue cheese, and Havarti.
Some people like to add cheese to their patty immediately after flipping it. Others prefer to add it towards the end of the cooking process, or even after the patty is done cooking so that the cheese remains unmelted.
Popular toppings for cheeseburger patties include spinach, onions, pickles, mustard, mayo, ketchup, relish, barbecue sauce, and soy sauce.
Cheeseburger patties can be cooked in a variety of ways, including on a grill, stovetop, or in an air fryer. When cooking on a grill or stovetop, you can use a cast iron skillet or griddle to get a nice crust on the patty.
