The Loaded Cheeseburger with Onion Rings is a flavor-packed, towering creation that combines juicy beef patties, melted cheddar cheese, crispy onion rings, and a tangy special sauce, all nestled between sesame seed buns. This burger is the ultimate indulgence for those looking for a satisfying and customizable meal. Get ready to dive into the step-by-step guide for this culinary masterpiece.
Ingredients:
For the Burger Patties:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80% lean for juicy patties)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
For the Toppings:
- 4 large onion rings (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup shredded lettuce
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
For the Special Sauce:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp mustard
- 1 tbsp pickle relish
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Special Sauce
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle relish, and garlic powder.
- Add salt and black pepper to taste.
- Stir until smooth and creamy, then set the sauce aside for assembly.
Step 2: Cook the Onion Rings
- If using store-bought onion rings, bake or fry them according to package instructions.
- For homemade onion rings:
- Dip onion slices into batter (a mix of flour, egg, and breadcrumbs).
- Fry them in hot oil until golden and crispy, then drain on paper towels.
Step 3: Form and Season the Patties
- Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions.
- Shape each portion into a thin, round patty, slightly larger than the buns (to account for shrinkage during cooking).
- Season both sides of the patties generously with salt and black pepper.
Step 4: Cook the Patties
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
- Place the patties on the hot skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
- During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each patty and cover with a lid to allow the cheese to melt perfectly.
Step 5: Toast the Buns
- Lightly butter the cut sides of the sesame seed buns.
- Toast the buns on a skillet or grill until golden and slightly crispy.
Step 6: Assemble the Cheeseburgers
- Spread a generous layer of the special sauce on the bottom half of each bun.
- Add a handful of shredded lettuce, followed by a slice of tomato.
- Place one cheesy beef patty on top of the vegetables.
- Add an onion ring on top of the patty for extra crunch and flavor.
- Drizzle additional special sauce if desired.
- Finish by placing the top bun over the stack.
COOKING Note:
- Onion Rings: If you prefer homemade onion rings, try using sweet onions like Vidalia for the best flavor.
- Burger Patties: For medium-rare burgers, cook patties for about 2 minutes per side. For well-done burgers, cook for 3–4 minutes per side.
- Customizing Sauce: Mix a pinch of paprika or hot sauce into the special sauce for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair your cheeseburger with classic sides like crispy French fries, sweet potato fries, or onion rings.
- Serve with a fresh green salad or coleslaw for a lighter side dish.
- Offer condiments like extra BBQ sauce, mustard, or hot sauce on the side for customization.
Tips:
- Meat Selection: Use freshly ground beef for the juiciest patties. Avoid overworking the meat to keep it tender.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Swiss for a unique flavor.
- Extra Crunch: Add pickles or jalapeño slices to enhance the texture and flavor.
- Make-Ahead Sauce: Prepare the special sauce a day ahead and refrigerate to save time.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace beef patties with plant-based alternatives, and onion rings can be baked for a healthier twist.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Burger):
- Calories: 750 kcal
- Protein: 38 g
- Sodium: 1,200 mg
FAQs:
Q: Can I use chicken patties instead of beef?
A: Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey patties work just as well and offer a lighter alternative.
Q: How can I make the onion rings extra crispy?
A: For homemade onion rings, use a double-coating method with flour and breadcrumbs before frying.
Q: Can I add more toppings?
A: Yes! Popular additions include pickles, jalapeños, avocado slices, or even a fried egg.
Q: Can I grill the patties instead of frying?
A: Yes! Grilling adds a smoky flavor to the patties. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side.
Q: What other sauces work well with this burger?
A: Ranch, chipotle mayo, or honey mustard are excellent alternatives to the special sauce.
Conclusion:
The Loaded Cheeseburger with Onion Rings is a showstopper, combining juicy beef patties, melted cheddar, and crispy onion rings for a flavorful, satisfying bite. It’s customizable, easy to prepare, and perfect for any occasion. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Dive into this recipe and enjoy a burger experience like no other!
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Loaded & Onion Ring Cheeseburger
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients:
For the Burger Patties:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80% lean for juicy patties)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
For the Toppings:
- 4 large onion rings (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup shredded lettuce
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
For the Special Sauce:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp mustard
- 1 tbsp pickle relish
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Special Sauce
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle relish, and garlic powder.
- Add salt and black pepper to taste.
- Stir until smooth and creamy, then set the sauce aside for assembly.
Step 2: Cook the Onion Rings
- If using store-bought onion rings, bake or fry them according to package instructions.
- For homemade onion rings:
- Dip onion slices into batter (a mix of flour, egg, and breadcrumbs).
- Fry them in hot oil until golden and crispy, then drain on paper towels.
Step 3: Form and Season the Patties
- Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions.
- Shape each portion into a thin, round patty, slightly larger than the buns (to account for shrinkage during cooking).
- Season both sides of the patties generously with salt and black pepper.
Step 4: Cook the Patties
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
- Place the patties on the hot skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
- During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each patty and cover with a lid to allow the cheese to melt perfectly.
Step 5: Toast the Buns
- Lightly butter the cut sides of the sesame seed buns.
- Toast the buns on a skillet or grill until golden and slightly crispy.
Step 6: Assemble the Cheeseburgers
- Spread a generous layer of the special sauce on the bottom half of each bun.
- Add a handful of shredded lettuce, followed by a slice of tomato.
- Place one cheesy beef patty on top of the vegetables.
- Add an onion ring on top of the patty for extra crunch and flavor.
- Drizzle additional special sauce if desired.
- Finish by placing the top bun over the stack.
Notes
COOKING Note:
- Onion Rings: If you prefer homemade onion rings, try using sweet onions like Vidalia for the best flavor.
- Burger Patties: For medium-rare burgers, cook patties for about 2 minutes per side. For well-done burgers, cook for 3–4 minutes per side.
- Customizing Sauce: Mix a pinch of paprika or hot sauce into the special sauce for a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 750 kcal
- Sodium: 1,200 mg
- Protein: 38 g