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🍔 Dinner

The Ultimate Classic Beef Burger

Juicy, deeply browned patties on toasted brioche with melty cheese and a tangy house sauce. Backyard perfection.

By the Recipes Space KitchenUpdated November 2, 2026
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The Ultimate Classic Beef Burger
Prep15 min
Cook10 min
Serves4
LevelEasy

About this recipe

A great burger is about restraint: well-seasoned beef handled as little as possible, a ripping-hot surface for a deep crust, and a soft, toasted bun. Our simple house sauce adds the tangy finish that makes every bite taste like a summer cookout.

Method

  1. Make the sauceStir together the mayonnaise, ketchup, chopped pickle and mustard. Chill until needed.

  2. Shape the pattiesDivide the beef into four portions and gently form into patties slightly wider than your buns. Press a shallow dimple into the center of each so they stay flat as they cook.

  3. Toast the bunsButter the cut sides of the buns and toast in a hot skillet until golden. Set aside.

  4. Season and searSeason the patties generously with salt and pepper just before cooking. Sear in a very hot cast-iron pan or grill for 3–4 minutes until a dark crust forms.

  5. Flip and meltFlip, top with cheese and cook 2–3 minutes more, until the beef reaches 71°C (160°F) inside.

  6. AssembleSpread sauce on the buns and stack with lettuce, tomato, onion and the patties. Serve right away.

💡 Tips for success

  • Salt only the outside, right before cooking, for the juiciest texture.
  • Don't press down on the patties — it squeezes out the juices.
  • Cover the pan for 30 seconds to melt the cheese fast.

🧊 Storage & leftovers

Cooked patties keep 2 days in the fridge. Store buns and toppings separately.

Cooking times and temperatures are guides — ovens and stoves vary. Always cook meat, poultry, fish and eggs to safe internal temperatures and check labels if you're cooking for anyone with food allergies. See our disclaimer.