Classic Juicy Beef Cheeseburger with Lettuce and Tomato

Introduction

Few dishes are as iconic and universally loved as the classic beef cheeseburger. Juicy beef patties, melted cheese, crisp lettuce, and fresh tomato slices come together inside a soft, toasted bun to create one of the most satisfying meals ever. It’s simple, hearty, customizable, and instantly comforting.

This burger is the kind that reminds you of backyard barbecues, summer picnics, and cozy diners. It’s timeless, and once you take that first bite — with juicy beef, melted cheese, and the crunch of lettuce — you’ll know why it’s a favorite across the world.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it takes simple ingredients and turns them into magic. The beef is seasoned just right and cooked to juicy perfection. The cheese melts luxuriously over the hot patty, while crisp lettuce and tomato add freshness and balance. It’s everything you want in a burger — savory, juicy, fresh, and comforting.

It’s also highly versatile: you can grill it for smoky flavor, cook it on a stovetop for convenience, or even make mini versions for parties.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• A true American classic that never goes out of style.
• Quick and easy, ready in under 30 minutes.
• Appeals to kids, adults, and guests alike.
• Customizable with different cheeses, toppings, or sauces.
• Perfect for both casual dinners and backyard cookouts.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4 cheeseburgers
• Calories per serving: ~520 kcal (varies with toppings and bun)

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: American
• Course: Main Course, Dinner, Lunch

Ingredients

For the Beef Patties:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio recommended)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
• ½ tsp onion powder (optional)

For the Burgers:

• 4 hamburger buns (toasted)
• 4 slices cheddar cheese (or American cheese)
• 4 lettuce leaves (iceberg or romaine)
• 4 tomato slices
• 4 onion slices (optional)
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise (optional)
• 2 tbsp ketchup (optional)
• 1 tbsp mustard (optional)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Shape beef patties and season.
2. Cook patties on skillet or grill until juicy.
3. Melt cheese on patties.
4. Assemble burgers with bun, lettuce, tomato, beef, and condiments.
5. Serve warm and enjoy.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Patties

• Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions.
• Shape each portion into a patty about ¾-inch thick.
• Use your thumb to make a small indentation in the center (this prevents puffing while cooking).
• Season both sides with salt, pepper, and optional garlic/onion powder.

Step 2: Cook the Patties

• Heat a grill pan, skillet, or outdoor grill over medium-high heat.
• Cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side for medium doneness (adjust for preferred doneness).
• In the last minute, place a slice of cheese on each patty and cover to melt.

Step 3: Toast the Buns

• Lightly butter and toast buns on the grill/skillet until golden brown.

Step 4: Assemble the Burgers

• Spread mayonnaise, ketchup, or mustard on buns.
• Place lettuce and tomato slices on the bottom bun.
• Add the cheesy beef patty on top.
• Add onion slices (optional).
• Cover with top bun.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

• Serve immediately with fries, onion rings, or a side salad.

How to Serve

• Serve hot with crispy French fries or potato wedges.
• Pair with a refreshing soda, lemonade, or milkshake.
• Perfect for a BBQ platter with coleslaw and corn on the cob.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use 80/20 beef for maximum juiciness. Leaner beef can turn dry.
• Don’t press patties while cooking — it squeezes out juices.
• Let patties rest for 2 minutes before assembling for best flavor.
• Always toast the buns for sturdiness and flavor.

Variations

• Bacon Cheeseburger: Add crispy bacon strips.
• Mushroom Swiss Burger: Sauté mushrooms and swap cheddar for Swiss cheese.
• Spicy Jalapeño Burger: Add pickled jalapeños and spicy pepper jack cheese.
• Double Cheeseburger: Stack two patties for extra indulgence.
• Healthy Option: Use whole wheat buns and leaner ground beef or turkey.

Freezing & Storage

• Uncooked Patties: Shape patties, wrap individually, and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before cooking.
• Cooked Patties: Store in airtight container in fridge up to 3 days. Reheat on skillet.
• Assembled Burgers: Best eaten fresh. Do not freeze with toppings.

Special Equipment Needed

• Grill pan, cast-iron skillet, or outdoor grill
• Spatula
• Meat thermometer (optional, to check doneness: 160°F / 71°C for well-done)

Conclusion

The Classic Juicy Beef Cheeseburger with Lettuce and Tomato is more than just a sandwich — it’s an experience. With perfectly seasoned beef, melty cheese, crisp lettuce, and juicy tomato, every bite delivers comfort and satisfaction.

Whether you’re grilling in the backyard, cooking indoors, or making a quick dinner, this recipe is a must-have in your collection. It’s easy, customizable, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table

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Classic Juicy Beef Cheeseburger with Lettuce and Tomato

Author: Anna Williams Cuisine: American Courses: Dinner, Lunch

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 15 mins Total Time 25 mins

Servings: 4 Calories: 520 kcal

Description

Few dishes are as iconic and universally loved as the classic beef cheeseburger. Juicy beef patties, melted cheese, crisp lettuce, and fresh tomato slices come together inside a soft, toasted bun to create one of the most satisfying meals ever.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

For the Beef Patties:

• 1 lb (450g)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
• ½ tsp onion powder (optional)

For the Burgers:

• 4 hamburger buns (toasted)
• 4 slices cheddar cheese (or American cheese)
• 4 lettuce leaves (iceberg or romaine)
• 4 tomato slices
• 4 onion slices (optional)
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise (optional)
• 2 tbsp ketchup (optional)
• 1 tbsp mustard (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the Beef Patties : Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty about ¾-inch thick. Use your thumb to make a small indentation in the center (this prevents puffing while cooking). Season both sides with salt, pepper, and optional garlic/onion powder.
2. Step 2: Cook the Patties : Heat a grill pan, skillet, or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side for medium doneness (adjust for preferred doneness). In the last minute, place a slice of cheese on each patty and cover to melt.
3. Step 3: Toast the Buns : Lightly butter and toast buns on the grill/skillet until golden brown.
4. Step 4: Assemble the Burgers : Spread mayonnaise, ketchup, or mustard on buns. Place lettuce and tomato slices on the bottom bun. Add the cheesy beef patty on top. Add onion slices (optional). Cover with top bun.
5. Step 5: Serve & Enjoy : Serve immediately with fries, onion rings, or a side salad.

Keywords: The Classic Juicy Beef Cheeseburger with Lettuce and Tomato is more than just a sandwich — it’s an experience. With perfectly seasoned beef, melty cheese, crisp lettuce, and juicy tomato, every bite delivers comfort and satisfaction.