Name: Juicy Cheeseburger Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 lb 80/20 ground beef; Salt, to taste; Pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup ketchup; 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish; 2 teaspoons sugar; 1 teaspoon white vinegar; 2 slices medium cheddar or American cheese; 2 ripe tomato slices; Iceberg or green leaf lettuce leaves; Thinly sliced onion, as desired; 2 hamburger buns

There’s just something unbeatable about biting into a classic, juicy cheeseburger loaded with all the right toppings. This Juicy Cheeseburger Recipe promises tender grilled beef patties crowned with melted cheddar, fresh veggies, and a tangy homemade sauce—perfect for your next cookout or cozy night in.

A white round plate with crumpled brown paper holds a double cheeseburger made of a soft golden bun, two grilled dark brown beef patties, each topped with a slice of bright orange cheddar cheese, fresh light green lettuce, a thick slice of red tomato, and a white onion ring, all layered and slightly dripping with pinkish sauce. Next to the burger, a pile of golden yellow French fries is arranged, and below them is a small white ramekin filled with bright red ketchup. The plate is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Juicy Cheeseburger Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Juicy Cheeseburger Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Juicy Cheeseburger Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I’ve made burgers a hundred ways, but this recipe always wins me over because it nails that perfect balance of juicy, cheesy, and fresh. It’s straightforward enough to whip up any day and impressive enough to serve guests without breaking a sweat.

Simplicity at its Best: Just a handful of quality ingredients for maximum flavor without fuss.
Perfect Juiciness: Handling the meat right ensures your patties stay succulent and tender.
Delicious Homemade Sauce: The tangy burger sauce elevates every bite beyond the ordinary.
Customizable Toppings: Layer up with fresh lettuce, tomato, and onions to suit your cravings.

Ingredients & Why They Work

For the best homemade cheeseburger, quality beef and fresh produce make all the difference. Keep an eye out for 80/20 ground beef—it's the perfect fat ratio for juicy, flavorful patties. And when picking your veggies, go ripe and crisp to add those fresh, vibrant notes that contrast beautifully with the rich beef and melty cheddar.

Flat lay of fresh 80/20 ground beef formed into two round patties, a small white ceramic bowl of coarse salt, a small white ceramic bowl of black peppercorns, a small white ceramic bowl filled with creamy mayonnaise, a small white ceramic bowl with bright red ketchup, a small white ceramic bowl of sweet pickle relish, a small white ceramic bowl containing granulated white sugar, a small white ceramic bowl holding clear white vinegar, two smooth cheddar cheese slices, several ripe red tomato slices, fresh crisp iceberg and green leaf lettuce leaves, thinly sliced white onion rings, and soft golden brown hamburger buns, all arranged symmetrically on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

80/20 Ground Beef: This fat content ensures maximum juiciness and a flavorful crust when grilled.
Salt: Added right before grilling, it helps create that savory crust without drying out the patty.
Pepper: Freshly ground pepper adds just the right amount of kick and aroma.
Mayonnaise: Provides the creamy base for the homemade burger sauce, adding richness and moisture.
Ketchup: Adds sweetness and tang to the burger sauce, balancing the flavors perfectly.
Sweet Pickle Relish: Brings a hint of crunch and a sweet-savory pop in the sauce.
Sugar: Just a touch to mellow the acidity in the sauce and enhance the overall taste.
White Vinegar: Provides brightness and tang to the burger sauce for that classic zing.
Medium Cheddar or American Cheese Slices: Melts wonderfully over the patties for that gooey, cheesy goodness.
Ripe Tomato Slices: Adds a juicy, fresh layer that pairs perfectly with the savory beef.
Iceberg or Green Leaf Lettuce: Offers crisp texture and subtle bitterness to balance the richness.
Thinly Sliced Onion: Brings sharpness and crunch to every bite.
Hamburger Buns: Soft, lightly toasted buns hold everything together while adding a subtle sweetness and structure.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best things about this Juicy Cheeseburger Recipe is how easy it is to customize and make truly your own. Whether you want to switch up the toppings or try a new cheese, the basics remain simple and delicious.

Variation: Feeling adventurous? Try swapping the cheddar for pepper jack or smoked gouda for a smoky twist. I love adding a slice of crispy bacon for extra crunch and savory depth.
Vegetarian option: Use a plant-based burger patty seasoned similarly and follow the same grilling method to get that satisfying char and juicy texture.
Seasonal twist: In summer, swap the lettuce for fresh arugula and add grilled pineapple slices for a sweet and peppery bite. It gives the burger a fun tropical vibe that’s just perfect for warm weather cookouts.
Spice it up: Mix a little smoked paprika or cayenne into the ground beef before forming patties for a subtle kick that amps up the flavor without overpowering the classic taste.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Juicy Cheeseburger Recipe

Six raw ground beef patties are spread out in two rows of three on a silver baking tray lined with white parchment paper. Each patty has a rough, uneven edge and a mix of dark pink and brownish colors with specks of coarse salt and black pepper scattered on top. The baking tray rests on a white marbled surface, and next to it are two small round bowls, one with salt and the other with cracked black pepper. The overall look is clean and simple, showing the patties ready to be cooked. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Form the Patties with Care

Start by gently shaping ½ lb of 80/20 ground beef into round patties. Don’t overwork or pack them too tightly — this keeps the patties tender and juicy once grilled. A loosely shaped patty allows those flavorful juices to stay inside, which is key to that perfect burger bite.

Step 2: Season Just Before Grilling

Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly on both sides of the patties right before they hit the grill. This timing helps create that amazing crust we all crave, locking in flavor and moisture. Resist the urge to salt too early, or you risk drying out the meat.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill on High

Make sure your grill is good and hot—high heat is essential to forming the delicious crust on the outside. This step sets the foundation for that signature grilled flavor, so don’t rush it. A sizzling grill surface will quickly sear your patties and lock in those juices.

Step 4: Cook Patties to Your Perfect Doneness

Place the patties on the grill and cook them according to your favorite doneness level. Use a meat thermometer for best results:

120°F for rare (red and raw center)
130°F for medium-rare (pink and warm)
140°F for medium (fully pink, starting to dry out)
150°F for medium-well (grayish pink, drier)
160°F for well-done (completely gray, very little moisture)

Keep an eye on them—grilling times will vary depending on your grill’s heat.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese Just Before Finishing

When the patties are nearly cooked through, lay a slice of medium cheddar or American cheese on each one. Let it melt for 1–2 minutes on the grill. That gooey molten cheese is what really makes this Juicy Cheeseburger Recipe sing.

Step 6: Assemble Your Burger Masterpiece

Toast your hamburger buns on the grill if you like a little extra texture and warmth. Spread a generous layer of the tangy homemade burger sauce on each bun half. Then stack the lettuce, tomato slices, cheesy beef patties, and onions. Top everything with the bun crown, and you’re ready to take a big, satisfying bite.

Top Tip

Mastering the Juicy Cheeseburger Recipe means paying attention to a few key details that take your burger from good to unforgettable. Here are some insider tips from my own grilling adventures to help you nail that perfect burger every time.

Handle the Meat Gently: I always shape my patties gently without overworking the beef. This keeps the texture loose so juices stay locked in, resulting in a truly juicy bite.
Season Just Before Grilling: Through trial and error, I found that adding salt and pepper right before placing the patties on the hot grill creates a fantastic crust without drawing out moisture.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Checking the internal temperature precisely helps me achieve the exact doneness—whether it’s medium-rare at 130°F or well-done at 160°F—so the burger is cooked perfectly every time.
Toast Your Buns: I never skip toasting the hamburger buns on the grill. It adds a slight crunch and smoky flavor that elevates the whole burger experience.

How to Serve Juicy Cheeseburger Recipe

Two double cheeseburgers sit side by side on a wooden board. Each burger has four layers: the top is a soft golden brown bun, below it is a shiny orange slice of melted cheddar cheese, then a thick, dark grilled beef patty, next a thick round white onion slice, another bright orange slice of cheddar, another dark grilled beef patty, fresh light green lettuce, thin red tomato slices, and a toasted bottom bun. To the left of the burgers, there are crispy golden French fries, and in front of the burgers is a small white bowl filled with bright red ketchup. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

To make your burgers pop, layer on fresh iceberg or crisp green leaf lettuce for a crunchy bite, ripe tomato slices for that juicy sweetness, and thinly sliced onions to add a bit of zing. Feel free to add pickles or even a dash of hot sauce if you want to spice it up. The tangy homemade burger sauce ties all these flavors together beautifully.

Side Dishes

Classic sides like crispy French fries, crunchy coleslaw, or grilled corn on the cob complement this Juicy Cheeseburger Recipe wonderfully. For something lighter, try a simple mixed greens salad or even baked sweet potato wedges. Whatever you choose, these sides make your meal feel complete and satisfying.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftover burgers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay good for up to 2 days. To preserve the juiciness, you might want to keep the components separate—store patties, buns, and toppings individually.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked burger patties by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, flash freezing, and then transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Consider freezing the patties without cheese and adding it fresh when reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the burger patties in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 300°F until heated through, about 5–8 minutes. Add cheese for the last 1-2 minutes to melt it perfectly. Toast the buns lightly to revive their texture, then reassemble with fresh toppings and sauce for the best experience.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the best beef blend for juicy cheeseburgers?

Using 80/20 ground beef—with 80% lean meat and 20% fat—is ideal for juicy burgers since the fat helps keep the patties moist and flavorful during grilling.

Should I salt the beef before or after forming patties?

It’s best to season the patties with salt and pepper right after shaping and just before grilling. Salting too early can draw out moisture, leading to drier burgers.

How do I know when the burgers are cooked to the right doneness?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature: 120°F for rare, 130°F medium-rare, 140°F medium, 150°F medium-well, and 160°F well-done. This ensures precise and safe cooking.

Can I prepare the burger sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The homemade burger sauce can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This actually helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly satisfying about sinking your teeth into a freshly grilled classic cheeseburger. Nothing beats the juicy, flavorful patties crowned with melted cheddar and all the fresh toppings—especially when paired with that tangy homemade burger sauce. Whether it’s a weekend cookout or a quick weeknight dinner, this Juicy Cheeseburger Recipe is sure to delight every bite. So fire up your grill, gather your favorite fixings, and enjoy a little homemade magic in every burger.