Introduction
This Ultimate Grilled Cheeseburger is juicy, smoky, and loaded with melted cheese, making it the perfect backyard BBQ favorite. With seasoned beef patties, melted cheese, and all the classic toppings, this burger is a must-try for any burger lover.
Whether grilled outdoors or cooked on a stovetop, this homemade cheeseburger delivers a restaurant-quality experience right at home.
-Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Juicy and Flavorful Patties – Made with 80/20 ground beef for the best texture.
✔ Smoky, Grilled Perfection – Adds a charred, smoky flavor.
✔ Melted Cheese Overload – Perfectly gooey and indulgent.
✔ Customizable with Toppings – Make it just how you like it.
-Ingredients
For the Burger Patties
1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra smoky flavor)
For Assembly
4 burger buns
4 slices cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
1 tbsp butter (for toasting the buns)
4 lettuce leaves
1 large tomato, sliced
½ small red onion, sliced
4 pickle slices
Ketchup, mustard, and mayo (to taste)
-Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Burger Patties
1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Gently mix with your hands until just combined—don’t overmix to keep the patties juicy.
3. Divide into 4 equal portions and shape into ¾-inch thick patties.
4. Press a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent puffing during cooking.
-2. Preheat the Grill
1. Heat your grill to medium-high (about 400°F/200°C).
2. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
-3. Grill the Burgers
1. Place patties on the grill and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, flipping only once.
2. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty and cover the grill to let it melt.
-4. Toast the Buns
1. Spread butter on the inside of each bun.
2. Toast on the grill for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until golden brown.
-5. Assemble the Cheeseburger
1. Spread ketchup, mustard, and mayo on the toasted buns.
2. Place lettuce on the bottom bun, followed by the cheeseburger patty.
3. Add tomato slices, red onion, and pickles.
4. Top with the second bun and press lightly.
-6. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve immediately with crispy fries, onion rings, or coleslaw.
Pair with a cold soda, beer, or iced tea for the ultimate meal.
-Serving Suggestions
With Sweet Potato Fries – A delicious alternative to regular fries.
With Garlic Aioli – Swap regular mayo for a garlicky upgrade.
With Caramelized Onions – Adds a rich, slightly sweet contrast.
With Bacon – Because everything is better with crispy bacon!
-Tips for the Best Grilled Cheeseburger
✅ Use 80/20 Ground Beef – The perfect fat ratio for juicy burgers.
✅ Don’t Overwork the Meat – Keeps patties tender and flavorful.
✅ Make a Dimple in the Patty – Prevents puffing and ensures even cooking.
✅ Only Flip Once – Helps develop a beautiful crust.
✅ Let the Cheese Melt Properly – Cover the grill for gooey goodness.
-Variations to Try
BBQ Cheeseburger – Add BBQ sauce and crispy fried onions.
Spicy Jalapeño Burger – Add sliced jalapeños and pepper jack cheese.
Mushroom Swiss Burger – Top with sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese.
Avocado Bacon Burger – Add sliced avocado and crispy bacon.
-Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator: Store cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze raw patties for up to 3 months, separated with parchment paper.
Reheat: Warm patties in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes.
-The Story Behind This Recipe
The classic cheeseburger has been a backyard favorite for generations, originating in American diners and BBQ cookouts. This grilled version brings out smoky, charred flavors while keeping the patties juicy and flavorful.
Whether you’re making these for a family BBQ, game day, or a quick weeknight dinner, this cheeseburger is a must-have on your grilling menu.
-Final Thoughts
This Ultimate Grilled Cheeseburger is juicy, flavorful, and packed with melty cheese, making it the perfect homemade burger. Whether you grill outdoors or cook on a stovetop, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Try this recipe today and enjoy a restaurant-quality burger in the comfort of your home!