Make Ahead Hamburgers
Make Ahead Hamburgers are flavorful, cheesy patties packed with cheese, onion, and a tangy sauce. Perfect for quick gatherings or busy weeknights with a savory, satisfying taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the hamburger until it loses its color.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour off excess grease and let cool.
- Add diced cheese, chopped onion, catsup, and salad dressing to the cooled meat.
- Blend all ingredients together and pack into an oblong baking dish.
- Refrigerate the mixture.
- Cut the mixture into squares, place on half of a bun, and broil for approximately 7 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce into the hamburger before cooking. If you prefer a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken instead of traditional beef. You can also substitute the County Line cheese with cheddar or pepper jack for a different taste profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these hamburgers with a side of crispy fries or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. They pair well with condiments like mustard and pickles, or even some homemade Vivian'S Baked Beans for a hearty side. You can also serve them at a party as a fun appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover hamburger mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the squares wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through, ensuring they don't dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Make Ahead Hamburgers contains roughly 358 calories, with 5g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1258mg per serving (55% of the Daily Value).
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 make these hamburgers ahead of time?
Absolutely! This recipe is designed for make-ahead preparation. You can prepare the mixture, refrigerate it, and cut into squares when you're ready to serve. This makes it a convenient option for gatherings or busy weeknights.
What can I do if I don't have County Line cheese?
If County Line cheese isn't available, feel free to use any cheese you enjoy. Cheddar, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack can work well in this recipe. Adjust the amount based on your preference for cheesiness.
How do I prevent the hamburgers from drying out?
To keep the hamburgers moist, avoid overcooking the meat initially. Additionally, adding ingredients like catsup and cheese helps retain moisture. When reheating, cover them to trap steam and prevent drying.
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).