My Experience: A Timeless Favorite
Cheeseburgers and French fries are a literal piece of my heart. This was the meal I waited for excitedly growing up that they brought to weekends of family cookouts. There was the smell of burgers sizzling on the grill, of fries that were enough to make your fingers cringe at first but crunching them to the point of them being golden….. all the sensory memories that remain warm. To this day, whenever I treat myself to this classic combo, I’m not eating, but rather traveling a pathway to a simpler, happier time.
What Is So Special About The Cheeseburger and French Fries Combo?
Perfect Balance: The slight crunchiness of the crispy, salty fries, they are juicy and cheesy burgers.
Customizable: Season the fries however you like or add your favourite toppings to the burger.
Universal Appeal: A good combo for all age groups and can be eaten casually or for special events.
Recipe: The Ultimate Cheeseburger
Ingredients for the Cheeseburger:
Gives it juiciness and flavor: 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean to fat ratio)
Cheese, 4 slices (cheddar, Swiss or American)
Soft and slightly sweet buns work best, but you can use 4 burger buns (toasted).
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings: Tomato slices, pickles, onions, ketchup, mustard, mayo and lettuce
Instructions for Cheeseburgers:
Shape the Patties:
Break the ground beef into 4 even portions and form into patties. Avoid overworking the meat.
Season the Patties:
Rub the salt and pepper, both sides of each patty.
Cook the Burgers:
Put a skillet or grill on medium high heat. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook patties for 3–4 mins. per side for medium rare; longer for desired doneness.
During the last minute of cooking add a slice of cheese to each patty and cover to melt.
Assemble the Burgers:
Toast the buns lightly. Finally top the cheesy patty with your favorite condiments and toppings. Serve immediately.
Crispy French Fries Recipe
Ingredients for French Fries:
High starch potatoes give you the best fries of course—4 large russet potatoes.
(canola or vegetable) oil for frying
Salt to taste
Optional Seasonings: Or garlic powder, paprika or parmesan.
Instructions for French Fries:
Prep the Potatoes:
If you want to, peel (optional) and cut the potatoes into thin sticks. Remove excess starch in cold water for 30 minutes.
Dry and Preheat Oil:
Pat the potatoes dry with a clean towel and then drain. Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 325F (165C).
First Fry:
Cook the potatoes in small batches, 3–4 minutes, until soft but not browned. Drain on paper towels, remove.
Second Fry:
Rise the oil temperature to 375°F (190 °C). Return to the pan the potatoes, fry again until they are golden brown and crispy, about 2–3 minutes.
Season:
Toss your fries with salt, plus your favorite seasonings and toss immediately.
The Best Cheeseburger and French Fries Combo Tips
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh, ground beef and hand cut fries really do make a difference.
Toast the Buns: It takes the sogginess out and gives a little flavor.
Double Fry for Crispy Fries: Perfect texture is assured by the two step frying.
Experiment with Toppings: For a spin, go with caramelized onions, avocado, or spicy aioli options.
Variations to Explore
Bacon Cheeseburger:
If you like the added crispy bacon layer of flavor, add some.
Loaded Fries:
Decadent side: Top fries with melted cheese, sour cream and chives.
Veggie Burger:
You could sub in beef with a completely plant based patty for vegetarian.
Sweet Potato Fries:
Sweeten up breakfast with sweet potatoes instead of regular ones, for a healthier and sweeter option.
Why The Cheeseburger and French Fries Combo is Timeless
Your cheeseburger and fries duo goes beyond just a meal; it’s a symbol of comfort, nostalgia, and how well people can get together to create a meal. It may be eaten at a diner or a backyard barbecue or made at home, but it’s a classic pairing that never really goes out of style.
“How do you like your cheeseburger topped?” What do you put on your fries — ketchup or mayo? To share your thoughts leave them down in the comments below!”
MY AMAZON AFFILIATE LINK
IF YOU WANT , YOU CAN VISIT MY OTHER RECIPES
