Melted Cheddar Cheeseburger: Your Juicy, Gooey, and Utterly Perfect Bite!
Hey there, Jason Griffith here! There are few things in the culinary world as universally beloved and satisfying as a classic cheeseburger. That perfect blend of savory beef, melty cheese, and soft bun is pure comfort food bliss. And this Melted Cheddar Cheeseburger recipe? It’s all about achieving that juicy patty and glorious gooey cheese, making it the ultimate quick and flavorful meal for any occasion, from a backyard barbecue to a cozy weeknight dinner here in Marion, South Carolina.
Why I Love This Recipe
I’m a huge advocate for mastering classic comfort foods that deliver big on flavor with minimal fuss. What I particularly love about this Melted Cheddar Cheeseburger is its straightforward simplicity and incredible payoff. The high-heat sear on the beef patty creates a fantastic crust, locking in juices, while the two slices of cheddar cheese melt perfectly into a gooey blanket. The soft brioche bun provides an ideal counterpoint to the savory fillings, and the simple condiments with fresh onion add just the right amount of tang and crunch. It’s quick to cook, highly customizable, and always a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that satisfies even the biggest burger cravings!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering Melted Cheddar Cheeseburger:
For the Burger:
- 1 beef patty (approximately 6 oz, about 1/3 to 1/2 lb, 80/20 ground beef recommended)
- 2 slices cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, based on preference)
- 1 soft brioche bun
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise or burger sauce (for bottom bun)
- 1 tablespoon ketchup (for top bun)
- ¼ cup finely chopped onions (white or red onion)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Swaps and Notes
- Beef Patty: Use good quality ground beef, 80/20 fat content is recommended for juicy burgers. You can make your own patty or use a store-bought one. For flavor, consider seasoning your patty with my Best Burger Seasoning!
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a great tangy flavor, while mild cheddar is creamier. Other good melting cheeses include American, Monterey Jack, or Provolone.
- Brioche Bun: A soft, slightly sweet brioche bun toasts beautifully and holds up well to the juicy patty. Potato rolls, challah buns, or classic white burger buns also work.
- Condiments: Mayonnaise (or a specialty burger sauce) and ketchup are classic. Feel free to add mustard, pickles, or extra toppings.
- Onions: Finely chopped raw onions add a fresh, pungent crunch. You can also caramelize them in a separate pan for a sweeter flavor.
- Lettuce/Tomato (Optional): Classic burger additions like shredded lettuce or a slice of ripe tomato would be great.
Instructions
Making a Melted Cheddar Cheeseburger is quick and straightforward, perfect for a satisfying meal!
- Cook the Burger Patty: Heat a large skillet (cast iron or a heavy-bottomed frying pan) or grill over medium-high heat. Season the beef patty generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Place the seasoned patty in the hot skillet/grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side for medium doneness, or longer for your desired level of doneness (e.g., 160°F/71°C internal temperature for well-done). Avoid pressing down on the patty, as this squeezes out juices.
- In the last minute of cooking, place the 2 slices of cheddar cheese on top of the patty. If using a skillet, cover the skillet with a lid or a metal dome to help the cheese melt quickly and evenly. If on a grill, you can use a foil tent.
- Toast the Bun: While the patty is cooking and the cheese is melting, slice the brioche bun in half horizontally. Toast it lightly on a separate dry pan or on the grill until it’s golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Assemble the Burger:
- On the bottom half of the toasted brioche bun, spread a generous amount of mayonnaise or burger sauce.
- On the top half of the toasted bun, spread ketchup.
- Carefully place the cooked burger patty with its melted cheddar cheese directly onto the bottom bun.
- Sprinkle the finely chopped onions on top of the melted cheese.
- Place the top bun on top to complete the burger.
- Serve: Serve your mouthwatering cheeseburger immediately with a side of crispy fries (like my Loaded French Fries with Cheese, Bacon, and BBQ Sauce) or your favorite dipping sauce! Enjoy this ultimate comfort meal!
Tips for Success
- Hot Pan, Good Sear: Start with a hot skillet or grill to get a great crust on your burger patty.
- Don’t Overcook: Cook the burger to your desired doneness, but avoid overcooking to keep it juicy. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Melt Cheese Properly: Covering the patty for the last minute of cooking creates steam, ensuring the cheese melts quickly and evenly.
- Toast Buns: Toasted buns prevent sogginess and add a delightful texture.
- Generous Seasoning: Season the patty well with salt and pepper on both sides before cooking.
- Freshly Chopped Onion: Fine dice the onion for a pleasant crunch and even flavor distribution.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This Melted Cheddar Cheeseburger is a complete meal on its own, perfect for:
- A classic lunch or dinner.
- A casual backyard barbecue.
- A satisfying weeknight meal.
Pair it with classic burger sides:
- Crispy French fries or onion rings.
- A side of ketchup, mustard, pickles, or your favorite burger sauce.
- A light green salad to balance the richness.
- A cold soda, beer, or milkshake.
For other incredible cheesy, comfort food creations, you might also love my Ultimate Grilled Meat & Cheese Sandwich or my Philly Cheesesteak Cheesy Bread.
Storage and Leftover Tips
A Melted Cheddar Cheeseburger is definitely best enjoyed immediately after preparation for optimal crispness, juiciness, and gooey cheese. Assembled burgers do not store well. If you have a cooked patty left over (without the bun/cheese), store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, then build a fresh burger.
More Recipes You Will Love
If you loved the savory flavors and comforting nature of this cheeseburger, here are a few more fantastic savory recipes that I think you’ll absolutely love:
- For a versatile seasoning that makes any burger (or beef dish) shine, check out my Best Burger Seasoning.
- For an incredibly cheesy and easy-to-make casual meal, my Easy Cheesy Chicken Sliders with Marinara Garlic Butter are always a hit!
- For a crowd-pleasing, cheesy dip that always disappears, don’t miss my This Crockpot Nacho Dip Is the Reason I Never Have Leftovers.
- And for a hearty breakfast option with sausage, eggs, and cheese, my Tater Tot Breakfast Bowl with Sausage Gravyis perfect.
Final Thoughts
This Melted Cheddar Cheeseburger is a true classic perfected – delivering a juicy patty, gooey cheese, and incredible flavor in every bite. It’s perfect for satisfying those deep cravings and making any meal feel special. Give it a cook, and enjoy this ultimate cheeseburger!
What’s your favorite cheese to melt on a burger? Share your ideas and feedback in the comments below, and don’t forget to follow Chef Maniac for more delightful and inspiring recipes!
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