james beard's favorite hamburgers

San Jose, CA
Updated on Sep 17, 2012

The incomparable chef James Beard contributed this recipe to an article published many years ago in the food section of my hometown newspaper. These patties are moist and flavorful, with a savory, mild taste that pairs well with toppings of all kinds - whether spicy, sweet, or ethnic. Use whatever meat to fat ratio ground beef you desire. Best to use a mild tasting oil (such as Canola) so as not to "clash" with your desired toppings. My family loves these!

prep time 5 Min
cook time 10 Min
method Stove Top
yield 4 serving(s)

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds ground beef
  • 3 tablespoons grated onion
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 2 - 4 tablespoons heavy cream - use larger amount with leaner beef
  • 3 tablespoons oil
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • - cheese of your choice, sliced (optional)

How To Make james beard's favorite hamburgers

  • Step 1
    Pat the ground beef into a rather flat, large patty. Grate onion directly over meat. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Spoon cream over meat.
  • Step 2
    Blend well - but gently - with your hands until combined.
  • Step 3
    Form meat into four patties. - for rare burgers, make patties about 1 and 1/4 inches thick.
  • Step 4
    Heat oil and butter together into a heavy (preferably iron) skillet. When quite hot, add patties and cook to desired doneness. Turn only once or twice while cooking, and DO NOT press meat down with spatula.
  • Step 5
    When done to your liking, add a slice of cheese, if using. Heat from burgers will melt cheese slightly. Prepare buns as desired.

Discover More

Category: Beef
Category: Burgers
Keyword: #dinner
Keyword: #lunch
Keyword: #CLASSIC
Keyword: #TAILGATE
Ingredient: Beef
Culture: American
Method: Stove Top

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