The burger is one of the most iconic dishes worldwide—Classic Burger: A Professional Recipe Guide,versatile, hearty, and endlessly customizable. From fast food staples to gourmet creations, a well-made burger combines juicy patties, fresh toppings, and perfectly toasted buns to create a satisfying experience.
This professional guide will teach you how to make a classic beef burger at home, with tips for a juicy patty, flavorful condiments, and perfect assembly for restaurant-quality results.
Ingredients
For the Burger Patties (Serves 4)
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Ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat) – 500 g
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Onion – ½ small (finely chopped)
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Garlic – 2 cloves (minced)
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Worcestershire sauce – 1 tablespoon
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Salt – 1 teaspoon
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Black pepper – 1 teaspoon
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Optional: 1 teaspoon mustard or ketchup for extra flavor
For the Burger Assembly
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Burger buns – 4 (sesame or plain)
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Lettuce leaves – 4
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Tomato – 1 large (sliced)
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Onion – 1 small (sliced into rings)
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Pickles – 4 slices
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Cheese slices – 4 (cheddar, American, or your choice)
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Condiments: ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, or special sauce
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Butter – 1 tablespoon (for toasting buns)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Patties
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In a bowl, combine ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and optional mustard/ketchup.
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Mix gently to combine. Avoid over-mixing to prevent tough patties.
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Divide into 4 equal portions and shape into patties about 1 inch thick. Make a small indentation in the center to prevent puffing while cooking.
Step 2: Cooking the Patties
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Heat a skillet, grill pan, or outdoor grill over medium-high heat.
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Place patties on the hot surface and cook for 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare (adjust time for desired doneness).
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During the last minute of cooking, place a cheese slice on each patty to melt.
Step 3: Toasting the Buns
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Spread a thin layer of butter on the inside of each bun.
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Toast on a skillet or grill for 1–2 minutes until golden brown.
Step 4: Assembling the Burger
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Place lettuce on the bottom half of the bun.
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Add the cooked patty with melted cheese.
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Layer with tomato slices, onion rings, and pickles.
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Spread your choice of condiments on the top bun and place it over the stack.
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Serve immediately while warm.
Pro Tips for Perfect Burgers
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Choose the Right Beef – 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio keeps patties juicy and flavorful.
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Don’t Overwork the Meat – Light mixing keeps the texture tender.
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Indent the Patties – Prevents burgers from puffing in the center while cooking.
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High Heat Sear – Gives a nice crust and locks in juices.
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Fresh Toppings – Crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and tangy pickles elevate the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
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Sides: French fries, sweet potato fries, potato wedges, or onion rings.
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Drinks: Soda, milkshake, or iced tea pair perfectly with burgers.
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Presentation: Stack ingredients neatly, serve on a wooden board, and add a small skewer to hold layers in place.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
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Calories: 450–500 kcal
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Protein: 28 g
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Fat: 25 g
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Carbohydrates: 35 g
Conclusion
A classic burger combines simple ingredients into a comforting, satisfying meal. By focusing on high-quality beef, gentle mixing, proper cooking, and fresh toppings, you can create a restaurant-quality burger at home.
Whether served for a casual family meal, a weekend barbecue, or a gourmet dinner, a well-made burger is always a crowd-pleaser.