Classic American Burger Recipe

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This classic American burger recipe is pure Americana. It's juicy, tender, and loaded with flavor. It's the classic burger recipe for any potluck, BBQ, or just a weeknight family meal.

Closeup shot of classic American burger with lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles.

There's nothing I love more than hamburgers! Whether they're grilled over hot coals, on a gas grill, or seared on the stovetop, I just love a good, old-fashioned burger, and that's just what you'll get with this recipe!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • It only uses a few limited ingredients.
  • It's full of all the flavors we love in a classic American burger.
  • It's incredibly easy to make.
  • It's the perfect addition to any backyard bash, potluck, or weeknight meal.

Top Tip

The easiest way to combine your hamburger mixture is by hand. Just wash your hands thoroughly!

Hand holding a classic American hamburger topped with lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles with bite taken out.

Ingredients

You'll only need a few simple ingredients to make this classic burger recipe. You'll find everything you need either in your kitchen or at your local grocery store. Be sure to check the recipe card at the end of the post for exact amounts.

  • Egg 
  • Ground beef
  • Small onion, diced
  • Breadcrumbs 
  • Dijon or yellow mustard 
  • Worcestershire sauce 
  • Garlic powder
  • Salt 
  • Pepper 
  • Hamburger buns
Overhead shot of classic American burger recipe ingredients in individual bowls on table

Instructions

This is a super easy recipe that comes together in a snap. It only takes a few simple steps, and you'll be in and out of the kitchen in no time. The highlights can be found here, but check the recipe card at the end of the post for the exact instructions.

1: Combine the burger ingredients in a large bowl and mix until combined.

Overhead shot of eggs and breadcrumbs in bowl
Overhead shot of all classic American burger recipe ingredients in bowl

2: Form into patties and cook until brown on the outside and fully cooked on the inside.

Overhead shot of four uncooked burgers in skillet
Overhead shot of cooked classic American burgers in skillet.

3: Top with your favorite classic American burger toppings and enjoy!

Closeup shot of classic American burger patty on bun with lettuce.

Substitutions and Variations

  • You can use ground turkey in place of ground beef or a mix of ground beef and ground pork.
  • Add a kick of flavor and heat with diced jalapenos in the beef mixture.
  • Grill these burgers instead of pan-cooking them if you prefer.

Equipment

  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Mixing bowl
  • Skillet
Closeup shot of classic American burger topped with lettuce, tomato, onions, and pickles.

Storage

Refrigerator: Store the burgers in an air-tight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer: Store for up to 3 months in an air-tight, freezer-safe container.

Make Ahead: Make the burgers up to a day in advance, then bring them to room temperature and cook.

Reheat: Microwave at 1-minute intervals until heated through.

What to Serve with Classic American Burgers

These classic American burgers are perfect with your favorite classic sides like:

  • Potato chips
  • French Fries
  • Sweet potato fries
  • Onion rings
  • Potato wedges
  • Corn on the cob
  • Coleslaw
  • Baked beans
  • Mac and cheese
  • Potato salad

Tips:

  • The easiest way to mix the burgers is by hand.
  • To prevent shrinkage, press a divot in the center of the burgers with the palm of your hand.
  • For an extra-done exterior, sear each side of the burgers on high heat until super brown, then reduce the hit and flip several times until cooked through.

FAQ

What is an American hamburger?

Hamburger patties are believed to have originated in Germany, but an American hamburger takes that patty, puts it on a bun, and tops it with lettuce, tomato, onions, and pickles.

How do you make burgers juicy?

Mix your burger mixture until just combined. Don't overwork it. Shape your patties loosely. Finally, add a divot to the center to prevent shrinkage and keep them from drying out.

Can I make these burgers medium rare?

It's never a good idea to cook burgers to medium rare. It's unsafe and could result in food poisoning. Always cook your burgers through.

Other Main Course Recipes

Yield: 4

The Best Burgers

The Best Burgers

This classic American burger recipe is a taste of pure Americana in every bite! It's the quintessential burger recipe for any occasion.

Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 egg
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • ¼ cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 tbsp dijon or yellow mustard
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp pepper

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl beat egg. 
  2. Add beef, onion, breadcrumbs, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just incorporated. 
  3. Shape into four ¾ inch thick patties. Refrigerate until ready to cook. 
  4. Place patties on a preheated grill, on medium-high, or fry in a preheated pan on medium. 
  5. Cook for about 5 minutes per side or until no longer pink inside.  
  6. Place on hamburger buns and add your favorite toppings. Enjoy!

Notes

You also have the option of baking the burgers on 375ºF for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking.

Nutrition Information

Yield

4

Serving Size

1

Amount Per Serving Calories 376Total Fat 21gSaturated Fat 8gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 10gCholesterol 147mgSodium 765mgCarbohydrates 10gFiber 1gSugar 2gProtein 34g

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