These Teriyaki Parmesan Burgers are a tasty twist on the classic burger! They’re juicy, packed with flavor, and come topped with melty American cheese. Yum!
I love grilling these burgers for friends! The sweet teriyaki sauce gives them a fun kick, and who can resist that cheesy goodness? Perfect for a summer BBQ! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is ideal for juicy burgers. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind they could be less flavorful. A mix of beef and pork could also add some extra richness!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives a lovely flavor. If you don’t have it, try Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Teriyaki Sauce: Store-bought teriyaki is convenient, but homemade versions can be more flavorful. If you’re watching sugar intake, look for low-sugar or low-sodium options. Coconut aminos can be a great gluten-free substitute.
American Cheese: While it melts beautifully, you can swap it for cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different flavor. Vegan cheese is another option if you want to keep things plant-based.
Sesame Seed Buns: Any burger bun works! For a healthier option, consider whole wheat or lettuce wraps. You can even use English muffins if you want something different!
How to Form Perfect Burger Patties?
Shaping your burger patties correctly can make a big difference! You want your burgers to be juicy and not tough. Here’s how:
- Start with cold ground beef; this helps the fat stay intact during cooking.
- Use a gentle touch when mixing in other ingredients to avoid overworking the meat.
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions. Use your hands to shape them into patties, making a slight indentation in the center. This helps them cook evenly and prevents puffing up.
- Keep the patties slightly larger than the buns since they’ll shrink while cooking.
By following these steps, you’ll have burgers that are not only delicious but also perfectly shaped and ready for grilling!
How to Make Teriyaki Parmesan Burgers with American Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 sesame seed hamburger buns
- Lettuce leaves (for garnish)
- Olive oil (for grilling)
For Serving:
- French fries (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious burger recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and another 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Burger Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, grated Parmesan cheese, teriyaki sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a fork to mix everything together—just be careful not to over-mix, as that can make the burgers tough.
2. Shape the Patties:
Divide the meat mixture into four equal parts. Gently shape each part into a burger patty, making them slightly wider than your buns since they will shrink a bit while cooking.
3. Preheat the Grill or Skillet:
Heat up your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly drizzle or spray the surface with olive oil to prevent sticking and help get a nice sear on the burgers.
4. Cook the Patties:
Place the patties on the hot grill or skillet. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on one side. When they’re browned, flip the burgers over and place a slice of American cheese on each patty. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until they are cooked to your liking and the cheese is melted and gooey.
5. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, lightly toast the sesame seed buns on the grill or in a toaster until they are golden. This adds a nice crunch and flavor to the buns!
6. Assemble Your Burgers:
Now for the fun part! Grab the bottom half of the bun and place a lettuce leaf on it. Next, stack on the cheeseburger patty and drizzle a bit of extra teriyaki sauce on top. Finally, finish with the top half of the bun.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Teriyaki Parmesan Burgers right away with a side of French fries if you like. Dig in and enjoy this tasty treat!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes for beef if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as ground poultry typically cooks faster than beef. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked.
What If I Don’t Have Teriyaki Sauce?
No worries! If you don’t have teriyaki sauce on hand, you can make a simple substitute by mixing soy sauce with a bit of honey or brown sugar, and adding a splash of rice vinegar. For a spicy kick, include some sriracha or chili flakes! Adjust the sweetness to your taste.
How Should I Store Leftover Burgers?
Leftover burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop them in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. If you want to keep the buns fresh, store them separately.
Can I Make the Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the burger patties ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. For longer storage, shape the patties, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before grilling!
