July 4th Burger
This year, with temperatures expected to reach record highs, you can enjoy the time-honored tradition of grilling burgers on July 4th without the breaking a sweat. This recipe creates mouthwatering burgers using stovetop and oven methods. Prepare yourself for the perfect blend of flavors, textures, and patriotic delight!
Ingredients
2 ground beef patties
2 burger buns
Lettuce leaves
1 tomato, sliced
1 red onion, sliced
2 slices of American or cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons of mustard
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons of butter (for toasting the buns)
Directions
Prepare the Patties: Season your ground beef patties with salt and pepper on both sides to taste.
Cook the Patties: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the patties and sear for about 3 minutes on each side. Then, transfer the patties into an oven preheated to 450°F and bake for 4 minutes. This should give you a medium-well done burger patty, so adjust accordingly to your choice of doneness.
Melt the Cheese: 30 seconds before the patties are done, open the oven and add a slice of cheese to each patty, allowing the cheese to melt.
Prepare the Buns: While the patties are cooking, spread a thin layer of butter on each half of the burger buns. Toast them butter-side down in a separate pan until golden and slightly crisp.
Assemble the Burgers: Spread some mustard on the toasted sides of the buns. On the bottom bun, place a slice of onion, and then the cooked beef patty (with the melted cheese), and then followed by a slice of tomato, and a few lettuce leaves.
Notes
Custom Toppings: Don't limit yourself to traditional toppings. Pickled jalapenos or gherkins can add a tangy crunch, while sliced avocado or guacamole can provide a creamy contrast. Consider bacon for a smoky flavor or even a fried egg for a decadent touch.
Specialty Cheeses: Blue cheese, brie, or smoked gouda are all great choices for your cheese topping. Experiment!
Homemade Sauces: Consider making your own barbecue sauce or special sauce for your burgers. A homemade sauce adds a unique touch that separates your burgers from the rest.
Fresh Buns: While store-bought buns are convenient, fresh bakery buns can make a noticeable difference in your burger. Consider brioche buns for a rich, buttery flavor or pretzel buns for a firm texture and a bit of saltiness. Brioche buns need less toasting time, so adjust accordingly so they don’t burn.
Perfect Patties: When shaping your patties, make a small indentation in the center with your thumb. This helps the patty to cook evenly and prevents it from puffing up in the middle.
Beer (or wine) Pairings: A great burger deserves a great beer. Consider pairing your July 4th burger with a flavorful brew that complements the taste. A hoppy IPA can cut through the richness of the beef and cheese, while a light lager can refresh your palate, making every bite as delicious as the first. You could also try a fruity craft beer or a smoky porter to add another layer of flavor. Remember, the key to a good pairing is balance, so choose a beer that harmonizes with your burger's flavors rather than overpowering them. Alternatively, I also like a good Napa Cab with my burgers.
Nutrition Detail
Nutrition Facts
2 servings per container
Serving size 1 burger
| Amount Per Serving | ||
|---|---|---|
Calories |
317 |
|
| % Daily Value* | ||
| Total Fat 18 g | 28 % | |
| Saturated Fat 7 g | 35 % | |
| Trans Fat 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol 125 mg | 42 % | |
| Sodium 475 mg | 21 % | |
| Total Carbohydrate 125 mg | 42 % | |
| Dietary Fiber 1 g | 3 % | |
| Total Sugars 1 g | ||
| includes 0 g Added Sugards | 0 % | |
| Protein 27 g | ||
| Vitamin D 0 mcg | 0 % | |
| Calcium 39 mg | 3 % | |
| Iron 3 mg | 17 % | |
| Potassium 347 mg | 7 % | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much of a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
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