Superstar with Cheese from Carl's Jr. features a juicy charbroiled beef patty topped with melted American cheese, crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, tangy pickles, and creamy mayonnaise, all nestled in a toasted sesame seed bun, delivering a classic and satisfying burger experience.
Equipments
- Charbroiler or Grill
- Spatula
- Cheese Slicer (if not using pre-sliced cheese)
- Lettuce Cutter/Shredder
- Tomato Slicer
- Pickle Slicer (if using whole pickles)
- Bun Toaster or Grill
- Knife
- Squeeze Bottles (for mayonnaise)
- Assembly Table or Counter
- Food Gloves
Ingredients
- 1/4 lb (113g) beef patty
- 1 slice American cheese
- 2 leaves iceberg lettuce
- 2 slices tomato
- 3 slices dill pickle
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 sesame seed hamburger bun
When selecting ingredients for your Superstar with Cheese copycat burger, choose a fresh, high-quality 1/4 lb beef patty for optimal juiciness and flavor. Use authentic American cheese slices to achieve the classic melt and creamy texture that defines the sandwich. Your lettuce leaves should be crisp and iceberg variety, while ripe tomatoes and tangy dill pickle slices add essential freshness and acidity. Toast the sesame seed bun to enhance its texture and bring out its nutty flavor, which complements the creamy mayonnaise perfectly. Your attention to these details ensures your homemade version mirrors the satisfying experience of Carl's Jr.'s Superstar with Cheese.
Instructions
- Preheat the charbroiler or grill.
- Place beef patty on the charbroiler or grill; cook until done, flipping with spatula as needed.
- While patty cooks, toast the sesame seed bun using a bun toaster or grill.
- Slice iceberg lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles (if not pre-sliced) using respective cutters/slicers.
- Once the patty is nearly cooked, place a slice of American cheese on top and let it melt.
- Spread mayonnaise evenly on the top and/or bottom bun using a squeeze bottle or knife.
- Layer lettuce, tomato slices, and pickle slices on the bottom bun.
- Place the cooked beef patty with melted cheese on top of the vegetables.
- Cover the stack with the top bun.
- Assemble the burger on the assembly table using food gloves.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Making a Superstar with Cheese from Carl's Jr. copycat menu at home allows you to customize ingredients to your preference. If you don't have American cheese, cheddar or a mild processed cheese works well as a substitute to maintain that creamy melt. When fresh dill pickles are unavailable, store-bought pickle slices can be used, or you can thinly slice bread-and-butter pickles for a slightly sweeter twist. Iceberg lettuce can be swapped with romaine or butter lettuce for added crunch or softness, depending on your taste. Using a stovetop grill pan instead of a charbroiler still delivers good searing; just make sure to preheat it well and avoid pressing down on the patty to keep it juicy. Your homemade Superstar with Cheese will be just as satisfying with these practical kitchen adaptations.
Tips
Ensure your charbroiler or grill reaches the proper temperature before cooking the beef patty to achieve a juicy, flavorful result. Use a spatula to flip the patty gently to retain its shape and moisture during cooking. Melting the American cheese on the patty just before removing it from the grill ensures a perfect, gooey texture. Always toast the sesame seed bun lightly for added flavor and to prevent sogginess when assembled with mayonnaise and fresh vegetables.
Nutritions
The Superstar with Cheese from Carl's Jr. contains approximately 520 calories, offering a balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. The 1/4 lb beef patty provides around 20 grams of protein, essential for muscle repair and satiety. American cheese adds about 5 grams of fat, while mayonnaise contributes additional fats, primarily from oils, impacting the overall calorie count. Vegetables like lettuce, tomato, and pickles supply dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and minerals, enhancing the nutritional profile of your meal.
Storage
Store the Superstar with Cheese in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of preparation to maintain freshness and food safety. Keep the temperature below 40degF (4degC) to prevent bacterial growth, and consume within 24 hours for optimal taste. Avoid freezing, as this may compromise the texture of the lettuce, tomato, and bun, affecting Your overall burger experience.
Variation or Alternatives
Swap American cheese with cheddar or pepper jack for a sharper or spicier flavor profile. Substitute mayonnaise with garlic aioli or mustard to add a zesty twist to your burger. Grill the beef patty to medium-rare instead of well-done to enhance juiciness and tenderness. You can also opt for a brioche bun instead of a sesame seed bun to add a slightly sweet and buttery texture.
Allergies
The Superstar with Cheese from Carl's Jr. contains common allergens such as dairy in the American cheese and mayonnaise, as well as eggs in the mayonnaise. The sesame seed bun poses a risk for those with sesame allergies. You should avoid this burger if you have allergies to beef, dairy, eggs, or sesame seeds to prevent allergic reactions.
Why this recipe?
The Superstar with Cheese menu from Carl's Jr. captures the perfect balance of juicy beef patties, melted American cheese, crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, tomato, and pickles, topped with a signature special sauce that enhances each bite with rich, savory flavors. The unique combination of ingredients offers a satisfying texture and taste that appeals to burger enthusiasts looking for both classic and bold flavors. Making a copycat version at home allows you to customize the flavors and ingredients to your liking while saving money and enjoying the freshness of DIY preparation. Your taste buds will appreciate the homemade touch, replicating the iconic taste that has made this burger a fan favorite.