Description
The California Burger is a deliciously juicy grilled cheeseburger topped with creamy avocado, fresh tomato, crisp lettuce, and zesty mayo spread for a perfect balance of flavors in every bite. Quick to prepare and ideal for summer cookouts or casual dinners, this classic American burger is elevated with fresh ingredients and a simple homemade lime-garlic mayonnaise.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Patties
- 1½ pounds ground beef (80/20)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
Burger Assembly
- 4 hamburger buns (toasted)
- 1 ripe avocado (sliced)
- 1 large tomato (sliced)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 4 slices red onion
Zesty Mayo Spread
- 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat the Cooking Surface: Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat to ensure it’s hot enough for cooking the patties evenly and creating a nice sear.
- Prepare the Beef Patties: In a bowl, gently combine the ground beef with salt and black pepper without overworking the meat. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a round patty slightly larger than the buns.
- Grill the Patties: Place the patties on the hot grill or skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on one side. Flip them carefully and cook an additional 3 to 4 minutes or until they reach your desired doneness.
- Melt the Cheese: During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each patty so it melts nicely as the patties finish cooking.
- Prepare the Zesty Mayo Spread: In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, lime juice, and garlic powder until well combined to create a flavorful spread for the buns.
- Toast the Buns: Toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster until they are golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Assemble the Burgers: Spread the zesty mayo mixture evenly on the bottom halves of the buns. Layer shredded lettuce, a cheesy grilled patty, avocado slices, tomato slices, and red onion on top. Cover with the top halves of the buns.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the assembled California Burgers fresh off the grill for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Add crispy bacon or a fried egg for extra indulgence and richer flavor.
- Swap out cheddar cheese for pepper jack or Swiss cheese to change up the taste profile.
- Use a lettuce wrap instead of buns to make a low-carb version of this burger.
