Description
The Ultimate Loaded Cheeseburger
Brace yourself for a tower of flavor! This monster cheeseburger is stacked high with juicy beef patties, melty cheese, crispy fries, and dripping with special sauce. Perfect for when you’re feeling hungry & bold!
Ingredients
For the Burgers:
2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend)
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
8 slices cheddar cheese
1 pack sesame seed burger buns
Toppings:
1 cup crispy French fries
4 slices dill pickles
1/2 cup shredded lettuce
4 slices tomato
1/2 cup crispy bacon (optional)
Special Sauce:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp mustard
1 tbsp pickle relish
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Sauce
Mix all the sauce ingredients in a bowl.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to blend.
Step 2: Cook the Burgers
Shape the ground beef into quarter-pound patties.
Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Cook on a hot grill or skillet for 3-4 minutes per side until nicely seared.
Add cheddar cheese on top and let it melt.
Step 3: Toast the Buns
Lightly butter the burger buns and toast them in a pan until golden brown.
Step 4: Build the Beast
Spread the special sauce on the bottom bun.
Layer with a beef patty, melted cheese, another patty, more cheese, and a third patty (if you’re brave).
Add crispy fries, pickles, lettuce, tomatoes, and bacon if using.
Drizzle extra special sauce over the top.
Step 5: Serve & Devour
Secure with a skewer (because it’s THAT big).
Serve with extra fries & a cold drink.
Pro Tips:
Smash Burgers? Press patties on a hot griddle for crispy edges!
More Heat? Add jalapeños & hot sauce for an extra kick.
Extra Gooey? Swap cheddar for American cheese for the ultimate melt.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare Components: Start by making the special sauce and refrigerating it. Cook your bacon and fries until crispy. Prepare all vegetable toppings.
2. Form & Season Patties: Divide the 2 lbs of beef into eight 1/4 lb portions. Gently shape into patties slightly wider than your buns. Generously season both sides with the spice mix.
3. Cook to Perfection: Heat a griddle or heavy skillet over high heat. Cook patties for 3-4 minutes undisturbed to form a crust. Flip, cook for another 2-3 minutes, then place a cheese slice on each to melt.
4. Toast & Assemble: While patties rest, toast buttered buns. Spread sauce on both bun halves. On the bottom, stack: patty, optional bacon, another patty, then your fries, pickles, lettuce, and tomato. Crown with the top bun.
Serving Suggestions
This loaded burger is a meal in itself. Serve it with a side of seasoned curly fries or onion rings. A crisp, cold coleslaw helps cut through the richness. For drinks, pair with an ice-cold craft beer, a creamy milkshake, or sparkling lemonade. Have plenty of napkins ready!
How-to Summary
Create a flavorful special sauce and chill it. Form eight beef patties, season them, and cook on high heat until juicy with melted cheese. Toast the buns. Assemble the burger in layers, starting with sauce, adding patties, crispy fries, and fresh toppings. Secure with a skewer and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cook the patties in the oven? For best results, use a stovetop or grill to get the necessary high-heat sear. Ovens won’t create the same flavorful crust.
How can I make this gluten-free? Simply use your favorite gluten-free burger buns and ensure all sauce ingredients and fries are certified gluten-free.
What’s the best way to keep the burger from falling apart? Use a wide skewer or long toothpick to pin the layers together. Also, ensure your patties are firm and not overhandled.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time? Absolutely! The sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance. Storing it allows the flavors to develop even more.
What’s a good substitute for the ground beef? Ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative work well. Adjust cooking times accordingly and consider adding a bit more seasoning for flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overworking the Meat: Handle the ground beef minimally when forming patties to avoid tough, dense burgers.
- Pressing Patties While Cooking: Resist the urge to press down with your spatula, as this squeezes out precious juices.
- Skipping Bun Toasting: A toasted bun is crucial—it adds texture and prevents the bun from becoming soggy.
- Overloading Toppings: While fun, too many wet toppings can make the burger impossible to eat. Balance is key.
- Not Letting Patties Rest: Let the cooked patties rest for a minute before assembling to allow juices to redistribute.
Conclusion
Mastering the ultimate loaded cheeseburger is about quality ingredients, proper technique, and bold assembly. By following this detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a legendary, restaurant-quality burger at home. It’s the perfect centerpiece for a casual gathering or a treat-yourself meal. Now, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to build your own tower of deliciousness.