Why I love it
There’s something about the combination of juicy beef, a perfectly toasted bun, and all the right toppings that makes this burger a personal favorite. I love how the beef patty stays juicy while developing a smoky, slightly crispy exterior on the grill. The flavor of freshly ground beef, seasoned with simple yet powerful ingredients, is irresistible. When paired with your favorite toppings—like sharp cheddar, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomatoes—each bite offers a burst of flavors and textures.
Table of Contents
Introduction
There's nothing quite like a classic beef hamburger, but with a twist of homemade touches and mouth-watering flavors, we can turn this everyday favorite into something spectacular. Let me introduce you to The Mighty Beef Stack. This isn't your average hamburger—it's an explosion of flavors and textures that will satisfy even the most intense burger cravings. Whether you’re cooking it for a weekend barbecue or just treating yourself, this beef hamburger is a delicious reminder of why we love burgers in the first place.Recipe
The Mighty Beef Stack
The Mighty Beef Stack is a gourmet take on the classic American hamburger. With juicy beef patties seasoned with garlic and onion powder, rich sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh toppings like lettuce and tomato, this burger offers a mouthwatering blend of flavors and textures. The toasted sesame seed bun adds the perfect crunch, while pickles and mustard balance the richness of the beef. It’s the ultimate comfort food that can be enjoyed at any gathering, whether it’s a casual barbecue or a mid-week treat.
Ingredients
For the Patty:
- 1 500g Ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio) This ratio ensures the patty remains juicy while cooking, with just enough fat for flavor without becoming greasy.
- 1 Small onion, finely chopped The onion adds a touch of sweetness and moisture to the beef, enhancing the overall flavor.
- 2 Garlic cloves, minced Garlic brings a rich, savory undertone that complements the beef and elevates the burger.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce This adds depth and umami, creating a savory, complex taste profile.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard Dijon mustard adds a tangy contrast to the beef's richness, balancing the flavors.
- 1 Egg Acts as a binder, keeping the patty intact during cooking.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste Essential for seasoning the patty, ensuring it’s well-flavored and satisfying.
For the Toppings:
- 4 slices Sharp cheddar cheese Melts perfectly over the beef patty, adding a creamy, tangy flavor.
- 4 stripes Crispy bacon Adds crunch and a salty, smoky element that contrasts beautifully with the cheese.
- Sliced avocado Offers a creamy texture and balances the savory flavors with its mild, nutty taste.
- Fresh lettuce leaves Adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts the juicy beef and creamy avocado.
- Sliced tomatoes Juicy and slightly tangy, the tomatoes balance out the richness of the beef and toppings.
- Dill pickles (optional) Adds a tangy crunch that cuts through the rich flavors.
- Ketchup and mustard (optional) Classic condiments that add sweetness and tang.
For the Buns:
- 4 Sesame seed buns (toasted) Soft yet sturdy enough to hold up to the toppings, the toasted buns add texture and prevent sogginess.
Instructions
Prepare the Patty Mix
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onions, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, egg, salt, and pepper.
- Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients, being careful not to overwork the meat. This ensures the patties remain tender and juicy. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Shape the Patties
- Divide the meat mixture into four equal portions.
- Using your hands, shape each portion into a patty that is approximately ¾ inch thick.
- Press a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb. This will prevent the patty from puffing up in the center during cooking, ensuring even cooking.
Cook the Patties
- Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Place the patties on the grill or skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on your desired level of doneness. For a medium-rare patty, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C); for medium, 140°F (60°C).
- In the final minute of cooking, place a slice of sharp cheddar cheese on each patty. Cover the grill or skillet briefly to allow the cheese to melt over the patty.
Cook the Bacon
- In a separate pan, cook the bacon strips over medium heat until crispy. This should take around 5-7 minutes.
- Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
Toast the Buns
- While the patties are cooking, toast the sesame seed buns either on the grill or in a skillet.
- Toast them until they are golden brown and slightly crisp. This step helps the buns hold up to the juicy patty and toppings.
Assemble the Burger
- Spread a layer of ketchup and mustard (if using) on the bottom half of each toasted bun.
- Place the cheesy beef patty on top, followed by crispy bacon, avocado slices, lettuce, tomato, and optional dill pickles.
- Place the top half of the bun on the burger, and your Mighty Beef Stack is ready to be served.
Notes
If you love the bold, savory flavors of The Mighty Beef Stack, check out our Savory Flame Grilled Hamburger for an extra smoky kick. It’s perfect for anyone craving a burger with a deep, smoky flavor.
Which Cuisine Does This Hamburger Belong To?
This burger belongs to American cuisine, particularly inspired by classic diner-style hamburgers. With its combination of savory beef, cheese, bacon, and fresh toppings, it embraces the quintessential American burger experience.Nutrition
Serving: 1ServingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 35gFat: 38g
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Conclusion
The Mighty Beef Stack is not just a burger; it's an experience. Its bold, savory flavors and perfect balance of textures make it a standout choice for any burger enthusiast. Whether you’re a fan of classic American flavors or simply looking for a hearty, satisfying meal, this burger will not disappoint. With its juicy beef patty, crispy bacon, melted cheddar, and fresh toppings, every bite is a burst of flavor. Try it out, and you might just find your new favorite burger.Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of ground meat instead of 80/20 ground beef?
Answer: Yes, you can substitute ground beef with other types of ground meat, such as turkey, chicken, or lamb. However, keep in mind that the 80/20 beef provides a great balance of juiciness and flavor due to its fat content. If you’re using leaner meats, like turkey or chicken, consider adding a bit of olive oil or an extra egg to maintain moisture and prevent the patty from drying out.
2. What is the purpose of Dijon mustard in the patty mixture, and can I skip it?
Answer: Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang that contrasts with the beef’s richness, enhancing the patty’s overall flavor profile. It also helps tenderize the meat slightly. If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can substitute it with yellow mustard or whole-grain mustard for a similar effect. While you can skip it if you prefer, the mustard does add a nice layer of complexity.
3. Why should I press an indentation in the center of each patty?
Answer: Making a small indentation in the center of each patty prevents it from puffing up during cooking, which helps the patty cook evenly and stay flat. This technique ensures that the patty maintains a consistent thickness, giving you a better texture and more even cooking from edge to center.
4. Can I use a different cheese instead of sharp cheddar?
Answer: Absolutely! While sharp cheddar adds a tangy, creamy flavor that complements the beef, you can use Swiss, American, provolone, or even blue cheese for a unique twist. Just make sure to choose a cheese that melts well, as it will help bind the toppings to the patty and add richness to the burger.
5. How can I prevent the burger buns from getting soggy?
Answer: Toasting the buns helps prevent them from becoming soggy by creating a slightly crisp surface that holds up against the juicy patty and toppings. You can toast the buns on the grill or in a skillet for about 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Additionally, spreading condiments like ketchup and mustard on the buns, rather than directly on the patty, can also help keep the buns from absorbing too much moisture.
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