A Good Hamburger

Prep: 30 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Juicy, flavorful hamburgers combining beef and pork, topped with fresh vegetables and creamy sauces, perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. ground beef
  • 1/4 lb. ground pork (lean)
  • 2 medium tomatoes
  • 4 lettuce leaves
  • 4 hamburger buns
  • 1 c. mayonnaise
  • 3 Tbsp. catsup
  • 3 Tbsp. mustard
  • 1/2 c. chopped onions
  • 1/2 c. chopped pickles
  • 1 tsp. chopped garlic
  • 1/3 c. melted butter
  • 1/2 tsp. salt

Instructions

  1. Mix ground beef with ground pork.
  2. Add 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/5 teaspoon pepper to the ground meat.
  3. Mix well.
  4. Divide the mixture into 4 equal parts and shape into patties.
  5. Cover the patties with foil and refrigerate.
  6. Mix mayonnaise, catsup, mustard, chopped onions, chopped pickles, chopped garlic, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/5 teaspoon pepper in a bowl.
  7. Mix well and refrigerate the sauce for 1 1/2 hours.
  8. Prepare 4 large lettuce leaves and slice 2 tomatoes.
  9. Cook the patties on a grill or in a frying pan over medium heat until cooked through, turning as needed.
  10. Melt butter and brush it onto the hamburger buns.
  11. Brown the buns on the grill or in a hot skillet until golden and heated through.
  12. Assemble the burgers: place lettuce on the bun, spread sauce over the lettuce, add the cooked hamburger patty, then tomato slices, and top with additional sauce.

Tips & Substitutions

For a juicier burger, consider using a higher fat content in your ground beef. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a lighter option. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some hot sauce or chopped jalapeños to the sauce mix. Ensure your buns are fresh for the best texture, and try toasting them for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These burgers are perfect for a summer cookout and pair well with classic sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or French fries. For a refreshing drink, serve with lemonade or iced tea. You can also explore more American recipes to complement your meal, such as baked beans or corn on the cob.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the patties in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave them briefly. For the best results, reheat the buns in the oven or toaster for a crispy texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of A Good Hamburger contains roughly 1319 calories, with 35g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 97g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (70% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (67% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2311mg per serving (100% of the Daily Value).

1319 kcal 66% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 34.8g 70% DV
Total Fat 97.4g 100% DV
Carbs 80g 29% DV
Fiber 5g 18% DV
Sugar 51.5g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2310.8mg 100% DV
Potassium 1215.1mg 26% DV
Cholesterol 156.1mg 52% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 76.1mcg 8% DV
Vitamin C 60.7mg 67% DV
Vitamin D 0.7mcg 3% DV
Calcium 102.7mg 8% DV
Iron 5.1mg 28% DV
Diet fit High-protein
Contains Milk Egg

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze the burger patties?

Yes, you can freeze the shaped burger patties. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before grilling or frying.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise in the sauce?

If you're looking for a healthier alternative to mayonnaise, consider using Greek yogurt or avocado as a creamy base. Both provide a similar texture and flavor while adding nutritional benefits. You can also use a vegan mayonnaise for a plant-based option.

How can I customize the toppings for my hamburger?

Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Add cheese slices, crispy bacon, or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor. You can also include different kinds of greens, like arugula or spinach, and a variety of sauces such as BBQ sauce or sriracha for a unique twist.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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