Go Back
Cast Iron Skillet Cheeseburgers

Cast Iron Skillet Cheeseburgers - Simple Food Dishes

There's something incredibly satisfying about a cheeseburger sizzling away in a cast iron skillet. The sound of meat hitting hot metal is music to a home cook’s ears. A good cheeseburger doesn’t just belong on a plate—it deserves a sidekick that elevates the meal to the next level. 
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 242

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon unsalted butter
  • 10 ounces sirloin steak tips, chopped into 1-inch cubes
  • 6 ounces boneless beef short ribs, diced into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 4 slices cheddar cheese
To Serve/Garnish:
  • Toasted hamburger buns, lightly buttered and toasted until golden
  • Fresh lettuce
  • Tomato slices
  • Crispy bacon strips
  • Thinly sliced red onion
  • Sliced dill pickles
  • Homemade burger sauce

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture
  1. First things first, let’s create the beef blend. I usually combine sirloin steak tips and short ribs for a balanced flavor and texture.
    • In a bowl, mix the chopped sirloin steak with the diced short ribs.

    • Add a pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.

    • Don't forget the Worcestershire sauce—it adds a punch! Mix until well incorporated.

Step 2: Shape the Patties
  1. With the mixture ready, it’s time to shape the patties.
    • Divide the beef mixture into equal portions. Aim for about 4 ounces each for a manageable size.

    • Gently roll them into balls, then flatten them into patties about ¾ inch thick.

    Don’t overwork the meat; a gentle hand keeps those juices inside.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet
  1. Now we need the skillet hot and ready.
    • Place your cast iron skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat.

    • Add the teaspoon of unsalted butter and let it melt. Swirl it around to coat the pan evenly.

Step 4: Cook the Patties
  1. It’s showtime!
    • Carefully place the patties in the skillet. You should hear a satisfying sizzle. Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary.

    • Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side before flipping. You’re looking for a nice crust to form.

    • After flipping, place a slice of cheese on each patty, and cover with a lid. This helps the cheese melt beautifully.

Step 5: Assemble the Burgers
  1. Now, let’s put it all together!
    • While the cheese is melting, toast the hamburger buns in the same skillet for an extra layer of flavor.

    • Once the cheese is gooey and the buns are golden, it’s time to build your burger.

    Start with the bottom bun, layer fresh lettuce, a burger patty with melted cheddar, crispy bacon strips, tomato slices, red onion, and pickles. Drizzle with your homemade burger sauce. Cap it off with the top bun.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook your beef. Aim for medium-rare for juicy results.
  • Let the patties rest for a few minutes before serving to retain more juiciness.
  • Experiment with cheese! Try Swiss, pepper jack, or blue cheese for different flavors.
  • Consider adding herbs to the beef mixture for added depth. Chopped parsley or chives work wonderfully.
  • Adjust the seasonings according to your palate; a little garlic powder or onion powder can add great dimension.