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Juicy Homemade Grilled Burgers Recipe with Perfectly Melted Cheese

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This recipe delivers juicy homemade grilled burgers with perfectly melted cheese using simple ingredients and easy steps, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese (or smoked gouda)
  • 4 hamburger buns
  • 1 tbsp softened butter
  • Optional toppings: leafy lettuce, tomato slices, dill pickles, sliced red onions, mustard, ketchup, or favorite burger sauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F (204°C). If using charcoal, let coals burn down to consistent heat.
  2. In a mixing bowl, gently combine ground beef with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder without overworking the meat.
  3. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz / 113 g each). Shape each into a round patty about ¾ inch (2 cm) thick and press a shallow dimple in the center.
  4. Place patties on the grill grates and cook for about 4 minutes on the first side without moving them.
  5. Flip the patties and immediately place a slice of cheese on each. Grill for another 3-4 minutes until cheese melts and internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for well-done or 145°F (63°C) for medium.
  6. Spread softened butter on the cut sides of the buns and toast them face down on the grill for 1-2 minutes until golden and crisp.
  7. Assemble the burgers by placing the cheesy patty on the bottom bun, adding desired toppings, and capping with the top bun.
  8. Serve immediately while the cheese is gooey and the burger is juicy.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat to keep burgers tender. Press a dimple in the center of patties to prevent puffing. Add cheese after flipping and cover to melt slowly. Let burgers rest 3 minutes before serving. Toast buns on the grill for added flavor. For gluten-free, use lettuce wraps or gluten-free buns. For dairy-free, use vegan cheese slices.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled burgers, homemade burgers, juicy burgers, melted cheese, backyard barbecue, easy burger recipe