What goes together better than sports, the game, and a delicious burger and fries?! Contrary to popular belief, it doesn’t take as much time and effort as you think to create a delicious meal while you watch the game!
Welcome to the last burger and fries recipe guide you’ll EVER need!
There’s nothing quite like biting into a juicy, flavorful burger paired with crispy, golden fries. Whether you’re hosting a cookout, planning a casual dinner, or just craving some classic comfort food, mastering the perfect burger and fries is a must. In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step, from selecting the best ingredients to cooking techniques that ensure every bite is pure bliss.
1. The Perfect Burger Patty
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for the best flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder
Instructions:
- Choosing the Right Beef: Start with high-quality ground beef, ideally with an 80/20 meat-to-fat ratio. This balance ensures your burger is juicy and flavorful.
- Seasoning: Lightly season the ground beef with salt and pepper. If you want to add extra flavor, mix in a bit of minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, or onion powder.
- Forming the Patties: Divide the beef into equal portions, usually around 4-6 oz each. Gently shape them into patties, being careful not to overwork the meat. Press a small indent in the center of each patty to prevent it from puffing up while cooking.
- Cooking:
- Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust the time to your preferred doneness.
- Stovetop: Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little oil, then cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Finishing Touches: During the last minute of cooking, add a slice of cheese if desired, and allow it to melt.
- Resting: Let the patties rest for a few minutes before assembling your burgers. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Pro Tip:
For an extra juicy burger, use a mix of ground chuck and brisket or short rib.
2. Burger Toppings and Buns
Toppings:
- Lettuce
- Tomato slices
- Pickles
- Red onion slices
- Cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or American)
- Bacon
- Avocado
- Grilled mushrooms
Buns:
- Brioche buns
- Sesame seed buns
- Potato rolls
Instructions:
- Toasting the Buns: Lightly toast your buns on the grill or in a skillet to give them a bit of crunch and prevent them from getting soggy from the burger juices.
- Assembling the Burger: Start with the bottom bun, add your patty with melted cheese, then layer on your desired toppings. Finish with the top bun.
- Customization: Feel free to get creative with your toppings. For example, a fried egg or caramelized onions can add a gourmet touch.
Pro Tip:
Spread a little butter on the buns before toasting for an extra layer of flavor.
3. Crispy Homemade Fries
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2-3 cups vegetable oil for frying
- Salt to taste
- Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or herbs for seasoning
Instructions:
- Preparing the Potatoes: Wash and peel the potatoes if desired. Cut them into even sticks, about 1/4-inch thick.
- Soaking: Soak the cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This step removes excess starch, which helps achieve a crispier fry.
- First Fry (Blanching): Heat the oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 325°F (163°C). Drain and dry the potatoes thoroughly. Fry them in batches for about 3-4 minutes until they’re soft but not browned. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Second Fry: Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Fry the potatoes again in batches for about 2-3 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy. Drain on fresh paper towels.
- Seasoning: Immediately season the fries with salt, or your favorite seasoning blend, while they’re still hot.
Pro Tip:
For extra crispy fries, toss them in a little cornstarch before the first fry.
4. Serving Suggestions
- Condiments: Ketchup, mustard, mayo, BBQ sauce, or aioli
- Extras: Serve with coleslaw, pickles, or a simple side salad
- Beverage Pairings: A cold beer, a classic soda, or a milkshake are perfect accompaniments
The best part of this is that you can use these recipes for your friends and family, too! The only limit is your imagination! These recipes are PERFECT for a cookout or grilling FEAST! With these recipes in hand, you’ll be the STAR of the entire party!