These Teriyaki Parmesan Burgers are a tasty twist on the classic! Juicy beef patties are drizzled with sweet teriyaki sauce, topped with melted American cheese, and sprinkled with Parmesan.
Who knew a burger could be so fun? It’s like your favorite cheeseburger went on a delicious vacation to Asia! I love to serve mine with crispy fries for a perfect combo!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is perfect for burgers; it keeps them juicy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try ground turkey or chicken. They are leaner but can dry out, so add a bit of oil to the mix.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a lovely salty flavor and helps bind the patties. For a similar taste, you can substitute with grated Romano or Pecorino cheese, or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Teriyaki Sauce: You can easily make a simple homemade version with soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. If you want a lower-sodium option, look for low-sodium soy sauce or a lighter teriyaki sauce in stores.
American Cheese: While American cheese melts beautifully, you could use cheddar or pepper jack for a more robust flavor. They won’t melt as smoothly but will still be delicious!
Sesame Seed Hamburger Buns: If you are not a fan of sesame buns, feel free to swap them out for whole wheat or brioche buns. They will change the texture but can work great!
How Do I Shape Perfect Burger Patties?
Shaping burger patties can be tricky, but a few tips can make it easier. Start by dividing the meat mixture into equal portions; this helps with cooking times. Making them slightly larger than the buns is key since they shrink while cooking.
- Gently form each portion into a round patty without overworking the meat, which keeps them tender.
- Create a slight indentation in the center of each patty. This helps them cook evenly and stay flat.
- Keep the patties in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes before cooking. This helps them firm up and makes grilling easier.
How to Make Teriyaki Parmesan Burgers with American Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup teriyaki sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 sesame seed hamburger buns
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- Optional: ½ cup sautéed onions for topping
For Serving:
- French fries (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious burger recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10-15 minutes to cook, bringing your total time to around 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Burger Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, grated Parmesan cheese, ¼ cup teriyaki sauce, salt, and pepper. Gently mix the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat, or your burgers could get tough. It’s just a quick mix until everything is incorporated!
2. Shape the Patties:
Divide the mixture into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty, making them slightly larger than the size of your buns since they will shrink a bit while cooking. Keep them about ¾ inch thick for even cooking.
3. Cook the Burgers:
Preheat your grill or frying pan to medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, place the burger patties on the grill or pan and let them cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side. We want a nice sear!
4. Add Cheese and Finish Cooking:
Flip the burgers, and as soon as you do, place a slice of American cheese on top of each patty. Cook them for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the burgers are cooked to your liking. A little melty cheese makes all the difference!
5. Toast the Buns:
While your burgers cook, toast the sesame seed buns either on the grill or in a toaster until they’re golden brown. This will add a lovely crunch to your burgers!
6. Assemble the Burgers:
Start putting your burgers together! Begin by placing a layer of shredded lettuce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. On top of that, add the burger patty with the melted cheese. Yum!
7. Add Toppings:
Drizzle a little more teriyaki sauce over the cheeseburger for extra flavor. If you like, sprinkle some sautéed onions on top before placing the other half of the bun on top to finish your burger.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Teriyaki Parmesan Burgers are ready to serve! Pair them with a side of crispy French fries if you like, and enjoy your tasty homemade meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just make sure to keep an eye on cooking times, as turkey can cook faster than beef. You might also want to add a little extra seasoning since turkey can be milder in flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Teriyaki Sauce?
If you don’t have teriyaki sauce, you can make a quick substitute by combining soy sauce, a bit of sugar or honey, and a splash of rice vinegar. This will give you a sweet and savory flavor similar to teriyaki. You can also use barbecue sauce in a pinch for a different but tasty twist!
How Can I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up or on the stovetop for a bit of crispiness. If you have extra cheese, a quick melt while reheating adds a delicious touch!
Can I Make the Patties in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the burger patties ahead of time! Form them and place them on a parchment-lined tray, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. If you need to store them longer, freeze the patties separated by parchment paper for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge before cooking!
