Classic American Cheeseburgers

The classic American cheeseburgers are perfect for your next barbecue

We had a bit of a heat wave over the weekend and decided to take advantage of the weather by having some friends over for a barbecue in our backyard. We cleaned off our patio furniture, raked up the dead leaves, and put together a simple (mostly) make-ahead menu. L.A. is home to lots of a delicious gourmet burger spots (my husband is obsessed with Father's Office and Umami), but a classic cheeseburger is always a crowd-pleaser. These burgers were made with a good blend of ground beef, double American cheese, grilled onions, and toasted buns. The rest of the toppings were pretty simple and fresh, which really allows the flavor of the beef to come through. We let everyone customize their own burger at the table and served them alongside a big plate of crispy sweet potato fries. It was the perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon and we look forward to hosting many more barbecues in the upcoming summer months.


Related Recipes:
- Salmon Burgers with Avocado Aioli
-Turkey Burgers with Green Apple & Brie
-BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders


Classic American Cheeseburgers:

• Divide l 1/3 lb. of ground beef into 4 equal quarters and shape each quarter into patties.
• Use your thumb to press an indentation into the center of each burger* and sprinkle them generously with salt and pepper.
• Meanwhile, cut one yellow onion into 1/4-1/2" rings and toss with a little oil, salt and pepper.
• Heat a grill to high and cook the burgers for 3-4 minutes, then flip and top each burger with 2 slices of American cheese.
• Add the onions to the grill and close the lid.
• Cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and then onions have softened and take on grill marks.
• Place the onions on top of the burgers and remove to a plate to rest for a few minutes.
• Lightly butter both sides of 4 burger buns and cook on the grill for 2 minutes, or until light toasted.
• Place the patty on the lower bun and top with lettuce, tomato, ketchup, etc. and cover with the top bun.

Serves four

*This will keep the center from rising into a dome while cooking.