Classic Homemade Skillet Cheeseburgers
These skillet cheeseburgers are all about getting that perfect, crispy outer crust while keeping the inside juicy. No fillers, no fancy binders - just high-quality beef, a hot pan, and classic toppings.
Ingredients
- 600 g beef mince (ground beef) at least 20% fat for juiciness
- 1/8 tsp salt and pepper each, per burger
- 2 - 3 tbsp canola oil or other high-heat cooking oil
- 4 soft burger buns around 10cm/4 inches wide
- 4 - 8 slices burger cheese American cheese or cheddar
- 8 leaves cos/romaine lettuce torn to size, or shredded iceberg
- 2 large tomatoes sliced into rings
- 1 red onion finely sliced into rings
- 2 large gherkins finely sliced
Instructions
- Separate the beef mince into 4 equal portions (or 8 for double cheeseburgers). Gently roll them into balls, then press down to form round patties that are slightly wider than your burger buns (about 12 cm / 4.7 inches wide and 1 cm / 0.4 inches thick). They will shrink as they cook.
- Get all your toppings sliced, sauces ready, and buns split. It is crucial to have everything set up before you start cooking because the process goes extremely fast.
- Preheat your grill or oven to toast the buns. Toast the split buns face-up for 3 to 5 minutes until they are light golden. Set them aside.
- Season one side of the patties with half the salt and pepper. Flip them over and press a small dent or dimple into the center of each patty. This keeps the burgers flat and prevents them from puffing up in the middle. Season the other side with the remaining salt and pepper.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of canola oil in a large cast-iron skillet over high heat until it is smoking hot. Place the patties in the pan, ensuring you do not crowd them (cook in batches if necessary).
- Cook for 1 1/2 minutes, pressing down lightly with a metal spatula. Flip the patties and immediately top each with a slice of cheese. Cook for another 1 1/2 minutes until the cheese is melted and a nice crust has formed. Transfer the patties to a plate and let them rest for 3 minutes.
- Spread a generous spoonful of your favorite burger sauce or ketchup and mustard on the toasted bun bases. Add lettuce, tomato slices, the cooked cheeseburger patties, gherkins, and onion rings. Top with the bun lids and serve hot alongside fries.
