Description
Big Mac magic comes alive in this homemade burger sensation that rivals the iconic fast-food classic. Crisp layers of beef, tangy special sauce, and perfectly toasted buns deliver restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen, making each bite a delicious adventure you’ll crave.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat:
- 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef (80/20)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Bread and Cheese:
- 4 sesame seed buns (2 extra bottoms for the middle bun)
- 8 slices american cheese
Toppings:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) shredded lettuce
- 8 dill pickle slices
Instructions
- Whisk together mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, mustard, vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika in a small mixing bowl until smooth. Refrigerate the special sauce to allow flavors to meld while preparing the burger components.
- Gently divide ground beef into 8 thin, uniform patties. Carefully season each patty with salt and pepper on both surfaces to enhance flavor profile.
- Warm a griddle or heavy skillet over medium heat. Delicately toast sesame seed buns until edges turn golden and crisp, creating a perfect textural contrast.
- Place seasoned patties on hot cooking surface. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes, developing a rich caramelized exterior. During final cooking moments, drape a slice of American cheese over each patty, allowing it to melt dramatically.
- Construct the burger by generously spreading special sauce on bottom bun. Layer with crisp shredded lettuce, cheese-topped patty, and two tangy pickle slices. Position middle bun carefully, then repeat layering process with additional sauce, lettuce, pickles, and second cheese-covered patty.
- Crown the burger with top bun, pressing gently to secure layers. Slice diagonally and serve immediately alongside crispy fries or chips for a classic fast-food experience.
Notes
- Whip up the special sauce ahead of time and let it chill in the refrigerator to enhance the flavor melding.
- Use 80/20 ground beef for juicier burgers, and press a small dimple in the center of each patty to prevent them from puffing up during cooking.
- If sesame seed buns aren’t available, use regular hamburger buns and sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a similar texture and look.
- Swap beef for turkey or plant-based patties, use low-fat cheese, and opt for lettuce wraps to create a lighter version of this classic burger.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 100mg