Ingredients:
For the Beef Burger:
- 1 pound ground beef (80% lean)
- 4 hamburger buns
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 lettuce leaves
- 4 slices tomato
- 4 slices red onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, pickles
For the Homemade Fries:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Optional seasoning: paprika, garlic powder, onion powder
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Homemade Fries:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Wash and peel the potatoes. Cut them into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Place the potato strips in a large bowl and toss with olive oil until evenly coated.
- Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Season with salt and any optional seasonings like paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fries are golden brown and crispy.
2. Prepare the Beef Burger:
- Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape them into patties, about 1/2 inch thick. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the burger patties and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until desired doneness is reached.
- In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each burger patty and let it melt.
- Toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster until lightly golden.
3. Assemble the Burger:
- Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom half of each toasted hamburger bun.
- Top with a cooked cheeseburger patty.
- Add a slice of tomato and a slice of red onion on top of each patty.
- Spread any desired condiments like ketchup, mustard, or mayonnaise on the top half of the bun.
- Place the top half of the bun over the toppings to complete the burger.
4. Serve:
- Serve the homemade fries alongside the beef burgers.
- Enjoy your classic American meal with your favorite beverage!
This recipe yields juicy beef burgers with gooey melted cheese, served with crispy homemade fries—a true American comfort food experience.