Papa Burger from A&W features a juicy flame-grilled beef patty topped with melted cheese, crisp lettuce, fresh tomato slices, pickles, and tangy A&W sauce, all nestled inside a soft toasted bun, delivering a classic and satisfying burger experience.
Equipments
- Grill or griddle
- Spatula
- Cheese slicer or knife
- Lettuce cutter or knife
- Tomato slicer or knife
- Cutting board
- Bun toaster or toaster
- Sauce bottle or spoon
- Assembly tray or plate
Ingredients
- 1/3 lb (150g) ground beef patty
- 1 slice American cheese
- 2 leaves iceberg lettuce
- 2 slices tomato
- 3–4 dill pickle slices
- 1 tablespoon A&W sauce
- 1 large hamburger bun
When preparing the Papa Burger from A&W, ensure you use a 1/3 lb (150g) ground beef patty for the perfect size and juiciness. Fresh iceberg lettuce and ripe tomato slices contribute to the burger's crisp and refreshing texture, so choose quality produce. Use American cheese for its meltability and mild flavor that complements the beef. Pickles should be sliced thinly to balance the tanginess without overpowering the taste. Your burger will closely replicate the Papa Burger from A&W when you assemble all ingredients inside a soft, toasted bun and add a tablespoon of tangy A&W sauce.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat grill or griddle to medium-high heat.
- Toast hamburger bun using a bun toaster or regular toaster; set aside.
- Season ground beef patty with salt and pepper if desired.
- Place patty on grill or griddle; cook for 3–4 minutes on first side.
- Flip patty with spatula; place cheese slice on top; cook another 3–4 minutes, until cheese melts and patty is cooked through.
- While patty cooks, cut lettuce leaves, tomato slices, and pickles if needed.
- Spread A&W sauce on bottom half of toasted bun using sauce bottle or spoon.
- Place cooked beef patty with melted cheese on bottom bun.
- Top with lettuce, tomato slices, and pickle slices.
- Cover with top half of bun.
- Serve assembled Papa Burger on tray or plate.
Substitution
If you're making a Papa Burger A&W copycat at home and lack American cheese, cheddar or processed cheese slices can serve as suitable substitutes. When fresh iceberg lettuce isn't available, romaine or butter lettuce leaves provide a similar crisp texture. If A&W sauce is not on hand, a blend of mayonnaise, ketchup, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce mimics its tangy and savory flavor. Toasting your bun lightly on a grill or griddle enhances texture, but if unavailable, a conventional toaster will work to create a warm, slightly crisp base for your burger. Use a spatula carefully to flip your patty without breaking it, ensuring a juicy, intact serving on your plate.
Tips
Make sure your grill or griddle is properly preheated to medium-high heat before placing the beef patty to ensure even cooking and a juicy burger. Use a spatula to carefully flip the patty only once to prevent it from breaking apart or losing its juices. When adding the American cheese slice, cover the patty for the last minute of cooking to help the cheese melt perfectly. Your fresh vegetables should be sliced just before assembly to maintain crispness and flavor for the best Papa Burger experience.
Nutritions
The Papa Burger from A&W provides a balanced mix of macronutrients, with a 1/3 lb ground beef patty contributing around 230 calories and approximately 20 grams of protein, essential for muscle maintenance. The American cheese adds about 70 calories and contains calcium, supporting bone health, while the fresh vegetables supply fiber and vitamins like A and C, promoting digestion and immunity. The hamburger bun supplies carbohydrates for energy, but keep in mind the overall calorie content can vary depending on the serving size and additional condiments in your burger. You can enjoy this burger as part of a meal that supports both satiety and nutritional variety.
Storage
Store your Papa Burger in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the bun from becoming soggy. Refrigerate within two hours of preparation and consume within 1-2 days for the best taste and safety. Reheat the patty separately on a grill or griddle to preserve the texture before assembling your burger again.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap the ground beef patty for a grilled turkey or plant-based patty to create a lighter or vegetarian-friendly version of the Papa Burger. Using cheddar or pepper jack cheese instead of American cheese adds a deeper flavor profile and a bit of spice. For an extra layer of texture, try adding caramelized onions or crispy bacon strips before placing the lettuce and tomato. Toasting the bun with a light spread of garlic butter enhances the aroma and taste, making your burger experience even more satisfying.
Allergies
The Papa Burger from A&W contains common allergens such as dairy from the American cheese and gluten in the hamburger bun. Your burger also includes a beef patty, which may be a concern for those with red meat allergies. Individuals with sensitivities to certain preservatives or ingredients in A&W sauce should verify its contents before consumption.
Why this recipe?
Papa Burger from A&W restaurant is loved for its juicy beef patty, fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and signature A&W sauce that creates a perfect balance of flavors in every bite. The combination of crispy onion rings and melted cheese enhances the taste and texture, making it a satisfying meal option. Creating a copycat version allows you to enjoy this iconic burger at home, saving money while customizing ingredients to suit your preferences. Your homemade Papa Burger can replicate the restaurant quality while adding a personal touch to each bite.