Ingredients
- 8 Schweid & Sons hamburger patties (two per burger)
- 4 sesame seed hamburger buns (I used Martin’s Famous)
- Kraft Deli Deluxe American cheese slices
- Seasoning salt (I use Lawry’s or Morton’s)
- Cracked pepper
Condiments
- Hot sauce
- Mayonnaise
- Ketchup
Optional Toppings
- Lettuce
- Tomato
- Red onion
- Pickles
- Grilled onions (sautéed in clarified butter)
- Mushrooms (sautéed in clarified butter)
- Bacon (pro tip: chop them small and put between cheese slices)
Instructions
Prep the Burgers
- Pre-heat your skillet or griddle to medium-high heat.
- Prepare a surface on your counter to prep your burgers. I line the area with plastic wrap for easy cleanup.
- Place one burger patty on the counter, cover the top loosely with plastic wrap. Using a burger press or the bottom of a stainless steel pan, press down evenly to create a thin patty that is about 6 inches in diameter.
- Season the top liberally with seasoning salt and fresh cracked pepper.
- Repeat with the remainder of the patties, separating each with parchment or wax paper.
Cook the Burgers
- Place 1-2 burgers face down on the hot skillet (or as many as you can fit into your pan without them overlapping, cooking in batches). Season the exposed side with additional seasoning salt and pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes.
- While the burger is cooking, toast the buns (no butter or oil) by placing them face down in a separate skillet over medium-low heat. They are done when they are barely toasted, not brown.
- Flip the burger and press down hard (yes, this is how Five Guys does it). You should see a dark brown sear on the top of the burger you flipped — if not, increase your heat on the next burger. Cook for another 3-5 minutes depending on your preferred doneness.
- Remove burger from the heat, place one piece of cheese on top of each patty. Then stack two patties, cheese to cheese. This is the Five Guys signature!
Burger Assembly
- For the top bun: add a few shakes of hot sauce on the inside of the top bun. Add a liberal amount of mayo and spread evenly.
- For the bottom bun: add ketchup, about 3 rings.
- Place the patties in the prepared buns (along with any other preferred toppings). Wrap the burgers individually in foil and allow them to rest for 1-2 minutes before serving to ensure the cheese is melty. Enjoy immediately!
The Secret to a Perfect Five Guys Burger Copycat
- High-Quality Beef
Using high-quality beef like Schweid & Sons hamburger patties ensures that your burgers are juicy and flavorful. These patties are known for their superior taste and texture, making them a perfect choice for this recipe.
- Seasoning
Seasoning is key to replicating the Five Guys flavor. Be generous with your seasoning salt and cracked pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the beef.
- Cheese
The choice of cheese is crucial. Kraft Deli Deluxe American cheese melts beautifully and adds that classic taste you love in a Five Guys burger.
- Toasted Buns
Toasting the buns without butter or oil gives them a slight crispness while keeping the focus on the delicious flavors of the beef and cheese.
- Proper Cooking Technique
Pressing down on the patties while cooking is essential to get that perfect sear. It helps to create a crust that locks in the juices and adds a delightful texture to the burger.
- Assembly
Wrapping the burgers in foil for a couple of minutes before serving helps the cheese to melt perfectly and allows the flavors to meld together.
Tips and Tricks
Keep It Simple While it’s tempting to load up your burger with all the toppings, sometimes simple is best. The combination of perfectly cooked beef, melted cheese, and a few well-chosen condiments is hard to beat. Use Clarified Butter When sautéing onions and mushrooms, using clarified butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that complements the beef beautifully. Customize to Your Taste One of the best things about making burgers at home is that you can customize them to your liking. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings and condiments to find your perfect combination. Bacon Tips For a real treat, chop your bacon into small pieces and place them between the cheese slices. This ensures that every bite is packed with bacon flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Classic Sides Serve your Five Guys copycat burgers with classic sides like fries, onion rings, or a simple side salad. Drinks Pair your burger with a cold beer, a classic milkshake, or your favorite soda for a complete meal. Desserts Finish off your meal with a sweet treat. Consider making a batch of homemade cookies, brownies, or a slice of pie to round out your burger night.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
While Kraft Deli Deluxe American cheese is recommended for its meltability and flavor, you can experiment with other types of cheese like cheddar, Swiss, or provolone if you prefer.
- What If I Don’t Have a Burger Press?
No problem! You can use the bottom of a stainless steel pan or even a heavy plate to press down your patties. Just make sure to press evenly to get a consistent thickness.
- Can I Cook These Burgers on a Grill?
Absolutely! Cooking your burgers on a grill will add a delicious smoky flavor. Just follow the same instructions for pressing and seasoning, and cook over medium-high heat until done to your liking.
- How Can I Make These Burgers Healthier?
To make a lighter version of these burgers, consider using lean ground beef or even ground turkey. You can also use whole wheat buns and reduce the amount of cheese and condiments.
Conclusion
There you have it—the ultimate guide to making the best Five Guys burger copycat at home. With high-quality ingredients, proper seasoning, and the right cooking techniques, you can recreate the magic of a Five Guys burger in your own kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready to enjoy a delicious, homemade burger that rivals your favorite fast-food joint. Happy cooking! Love this Five Guys burger copycat recipe? Pin it now to save for later and share with friends! 
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