Description
The Classic Cheeseburger is a juicy and flavorful burger that combines fresh veggies, melted plant-based cheese, and crispy smoked turkey bacon for a satisfying meal. Easy to prepare and customizable, this recipe is perfect for quick dinners or impressing guests with a delicious, balanced flavor and delightful texture.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Patties
- 1 lb ground beef (fresh, quality)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional, for herb seasoning)
For the Bacon and Cheese
- 4–6 slices smoked turkey bacon
- 4 slices plant-based cheese (good melting variety like cheddar-style or mozzarella-style)
For the Vegetables and Buns
- Fresh lettuce leaves
- 2 ripe tomatoes, sliced
- Pickles, sliced
- Onions (sweet or sharp), sliced
- 4 classic burger buns (soft, lightly toasted; gluten-free buns optional)
Condiments & Seasonings
- Ketchup (natural)
- Mustard (natural)
- Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- Salt and pepper
Optional Variations
- Sliced jalapeños or hot sauce (natural) for spicy kick
- Lentil or mushroom-based patty as vegetarian alternative
- Avocado slices or grilled mushrooms for extra toppings
Instructions
- Prepare the Patties: Season the ground beef generously with salt and pepper. If desired, mix in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. Form the meat into evenly sized patties with a small indentation in the center to prevent puffing during cooking. Handle the meat gently to keep patties tender.
- Cook the Smoked Turkey Bacon: While the patties rest, cook the smoked turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess fat, ensuring crunchy strips.
- Grill the Patties: Heat a grill or skillet. Cook patties for 3-4 minutes on each side or until browned and cooked to preferred doneness. In the last minute, layer a slice of plant-based cheese atop each patty to melt perfectly.
- Toast the Buns: Slice the burger buns and lightly toast them on the grill or skillet. This adds warmth, crunch, and prevents sogginess.
- Assemble Your Classic Cheeseburger: On the bottom bun, place fresh lettuce leaves followed by the cheesy patty. Top with the crispy smoked turkey bacon, tomato slices, pickles, and onions. Spread ketchup, mustard, and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) to taste, then add the top bun. Press gently to secure all layers.
Notes
- Use freshly ground beef for optimal flavor and texture.
- Do not over-handle the meat when forming patties to keep them tender.
- Add cheese just before finishing cooking to ensure it melts without drying out.
- Lightly toast buns for added flavor and better structure.
- Let patties rest for a couple of minutes after cooking to lock in juices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: classic cheeseburger, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey bacon, juicy burger, easy burger recipe