What’s up, food lovers! Ready to sink your teeth into the ultimate chopped cheeseburger recipe? This iconic dish, hailing from the bustling streets of New York City, is not just a burger; it’s a culinary masterpiece that’s quick to make and guaranteed to satisfy your burger cravings. So grab your aprons and let’s dive right in!
The Essence of a Chopped Cheeseburger
The chopped cheeseburger distinguishes itself from its patty counterparts with its unique texture and bold flavors. The ground beef is chopped coarsely, almost like a steak, and cooked on a griddle or pan until it’s slightly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. This technique gives the burger a delightful balance of savory crunch and tender tenderness.
The Art of the Cheesesteak-Style Chop
Ingredients:
- Ground beef: 1 pound
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Pepper: ½ teaspoon
- Garlic powder: ½ teaspoon
- Onion powder: ½ teaspoon
- Worcestershire sauce: 1 tablespoon
- American cheese: 4 slices
Instructions:
- Season the ground beef: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Chop the beef: Using a sharp knife, coarsely chop the seasoned ground beef until it resembles small pieces of steak.
- Cook the beef: Heat a large griddle or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped beef and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks.
The Perfect Cheeseburger Toppings
Now that you have your perfectly chopped beef, it’s time to load it up with all the classic cheeseburger toppings. The key here is to keep it simple yet satisfying.
Suggestions:
- Cheese: American cheese is the traditional choice, but feel free to experiment with other favorites like cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack.
- Onion: Thinly sliced raw onion adds a refreshing crunch and a touch of sweetness.
- Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomato slices provide a juicy contrast to the savory burger.
- Lettuce: A layer of crisp lettuce gives the burger a light and refreshing touch.
- Ketchup and mustard: These condiments are essential for adding that tangy flavor and color.
Assembly: The Grand Finale
With all your components prepared, it’s time to assemble your chopped cheeseburger masterpiece. Here’s how:
- Toast the buns: Lightly toast your buns on a griddle or in a toaster to enhance their texture.
- Lay the foundation: Place one bun half on a plate.
- Top with toppings: Layer the chopped beef, cheese, onion, tomatoes, and lettuce on the bun.
- Add condiments: Generously drizzle ketchup and mustard over the toppings.
- Close the deal: Place the other bun half on top and press lightly to secure the fillings.
Tips for a Legendary Chopped Cheeseburger
- Use high-quality ground beef: Opt for an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
- Don’t overmix the beef: Overmixing can result in a tough, dense burger. Handle the beef gently and mix just enough to combine the seasonings.
- Coarsely chop the beef: This is crucial for achieving the signature texture of a chopped cheeseburger.
- Cook the beef on a hot griddle: This will help create a crispy exterior and prevent excess grease from pooling in the pan.
- Don’t overload the toppings: Keep the toppings simple and balanced to avoid overwhelming the flavors of the chopped beef.
- Serve immediately: Chopped cheeseburgers are best enjoyed hot off the grill.
Ingredients Recap
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 4 slices American cheese
- Toppings of your choice
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 5-7 minutes
- Total time: 20-22 minutes
FAQ about Chopped Cheeseburger Recipe
What is a chopped cheeseburger?
It’s a New York City staple sandwich made with ground beef, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, and onion, all chopped up and served on a toasted hamburger bun.
What’s the best ground beef to use?
For a classic chopped cheeseburger, 80/20 ground chuck is the go-to choice. It provides the perfect balance of flavor and fat content.
How do you get the beef crispy?
Use a cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat to sear the beef. Don’t overcrowd the pan, and let the beef cook undisturbed for a few minutes to develop a nice crust.
What are the essential toppings?
Lettuce, tomato, and onion are the classic toppings for a chopped cheeseburger. But you can also add pickles, ketchup, mustard, or hot sauce to your liking.
What kind of cheese should I use?
American cheese is the traditional choice for a chopped cheeseburger. It melts well and provides a gooey, flavorful addition. However, you can also use provolone, cheddar, or Swiss cheese if you prefer.
