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Hamburger and Fries

Hamburger and Fries

Nothing beats the classic combination of a juicy hamburger paired with crispy golden chips.
Course Main Course

Ingredients
  

  • For the Hamburger Patties
  • 500 g ground beef preferably 80% lean, 20% fat for juiciness
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika optional
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 egg to bind the mixture
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • For Assembling the Burger
  • 4 burger buns
  • 4 slices of cheddar cheese
  • Lettuce leaves
  • Tomato slices
  • Red onion slices
  • Pickles
  • Mayonnaise ketchup, or mustard (choose your favorite sauces) or all three
  • For the Chips
  • 4 large potatoes
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Hamburger Patties

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, egg, and breadcrumbs. Do not over smush the ground beef.
  • Mix gently with your hands until the ingredients are just combined. Be careful not to overmix as it can make the patties tough. If this feels a bit dry, you can add an egg yolk or a whole egg.
  • Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties, slightly larger than the size of your buns (they’ll shrink and puff up a bit while cooking).
  • Place the patties on a tray, cover with cling film, and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape while cooking.

Make the Chips

  • Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized sticks or wedges.
  • Soak the potato sticks in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This removes excess starch, making them crispier.
  • Drain and pat them dry with a clean towel.
  • Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Or use your new AirFryer!
  • Toss the potato sticks in vegetable oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
  • Bake for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden and crispy. If using an airfryer adjust the cooking time accordingly

Cook the Hamburger Patties

  • Heat a grill pan, skillet, or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking. A cast iron skillet is a great option if you have one,
  • Cook the patties for 3–4 minutes on one side, then flip. Add a slice of cheese to each patty and cook for another 3–4 minutes or until they reach your desired level of doneness (use a meat thermometer for accuracy; 70°C/160°F for well-done). Be careful with the thermometer as it can actually break the burger in half.
  • Toast the burger buns on the grill or toaster for about 1 minute for extra flavor.

Assemble the Burgers

  • Spread your preferred sauces on the bottom half of the toasted bun.
  • Add a lettuce leaf, a slice of tomato, and the cooked patty with melted cheese.
  • Top with red onion slices, pickles, and the top half of the bun.

Serve and Enjoy

  • Plate your burgers alongside the crispy chips. Add a side of ketchup, mayonnaise, or aioli for dipping, and enjoy your homemade feast!

Notes

Making hamburgers and chips from scratch might take a bit more effort than a quick takeout run, but the payoff is worth it. The flavors are fresher, and you have full control over the ingredients, making it a healthier and tastier option. So, the next time you’re craving this classic comfort food, give this recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you!