Classic All-American Cheeseburger

Ingredients:

For the burger patties:

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 slices of American cheese or cheddar cheese

For assembling the burger:

• 4 burger buns
• Lettuce leaves
• Sliced tomatoes
• Sliced red onions
• Pickles
• Ketchup and mustard (optional)
• Mayonnaise (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Burger Patties:
   • Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions.
   • Gently shape each portion into a patty, making sure they’re slightly larger than the burger buns to account for shrinkage during cooking.
   • Season both sides of the patties generously with salt and pepper.
2. Grill or Cook the Burger Patties:
   • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or heat a skillet on the stove over medium-high heat.
   • Place the burger patties on the grill or skillet.
   • Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, flipping them only once, until they reach your desired level of doneness.
   • During the last minute of cooking, add a slice of cheese on top of each patty and allow it to melt.
3. Toast the Burger Buns:
   • While the patties are cooking, lightly toast the burger buns on the grill or in a toaster until they are golden brown.
4. Assemble the Burgers:
   • Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise, ketchup, or mustard (if using) on the bottom half of each toasted bun.
   • Place a lettuce leaf on top of the sauce to create a base for the burger.
   • Add the cooked burger patty with melted cheese on top of the lettuce.
   • Layer sliced tomatoes, red onions, and pickles on the patty.
   • Place the top half of the bun over the toppings.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Serve the All-American Cheeseburgers immediately while they’re hot and the cheese is melted.
   • These burgers go well with classic sides like french fries, potato chips, or a simple green salad.

Enjoy the classic flavors and simplicity of the All-American Cheeseburger—a timeless favorite!