Classic Burger Recipe with Different Seasoning Options

This recipe is the perfect recipe to feed your whole family while camping! It has a few simple ingredients and everyone can customize their own burger however they want!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat for juicier burgers)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• 4 burger buns
• Lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, cheese (optional toppings)
• Condiments (ketchup, mustard, mayo, etc.)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ground Beef:
   • Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 1/4 pound each).
   • Gently shape each portion into a patty, about 3/4 inch thick. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to help it cook evenly.
2. Season the Patties:
   • Season both sides of each patty with salt and pepper, or choose one of the seasoning options below.
3. Cook the Patties:
   • Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat.
   • Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, 4-5 minutes per side for medium, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
   • If using cheese, add a slice to each patty during the last minute of cooking, covering the grill or skillet to melt the cheese.
4. Toast the Buns:
   • While the patties are cooking, lightly toast the burger buns on the grill or in a skillet.
5. Assemble the Burgers:
   • Place the cooked patties on the bottom halves of the buns.
   • Add your choice of lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and condiments.
   • Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.

Seasoning Options:

1. Classic Salt and Pepper:
   • Simply season the patties with salt and pepper for a traditional taste.
2. Garlic and Onion:
   • Mix 1 teaspoon garlic powder and 1 teaspoon onion powder into the ground beef before forming the patties.
3. Smoky BBQ:
   • Mix 1 tablespoon BBQ sauce, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder into the ground beef before forming the patties.
4. Spicy Kick:
   • Mix 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon paprika, and 1 teaspoon garlic powder into the ground beef before forming the patties.
5. Herb and Cheese:
   • Mix 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh herbs (like parsley, thyme, or rosemary) and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese into the ground beef before forming the patties.
6. Mediterranean:
   • Mix 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese into the ground beef before forming the patties.
7. Asian-Inspired:
   • Mix 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon grated ginger, and 1 minced garlic clove into the ground beef before forming the patties.

By experimenting with these seasoning options, you can enjoy a variety of delicious burger flavors while keeping the basic cooking method straightforward. Try this simple burger recipe while camping with us at Meramec Campground!