The Checkerburger from Checkers features a juicy, seasoned beef patty topped with melted American cheese, crisp lettuce, ripe tomato slices, pickles, and tangy ketchup, all nestled inside a soft, toasted sesame seed bun, offering a classic, flavorful burger experience.
Equipments
- Grill or flat-top grill
- Burger press
- Cheese slicer
- Lettuce cutter
- Tomato slicer
- Pickle slicer or pre-sliced pickle container
- Bun toaster or flat-top grill
- Spatula
- Sandwich assembly station
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Squeeze bottle (for ketchup)
- Food holding trays or bins
Ingredients
- 1/4 lb (113g) ground beef patty
- 1 slice American cheese
- 2-3 leaves crisp iceberg lettuce
- 2 slices ripe tomato
- 3-4 dill pickle slices
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 sesame seed hamburger bun
Ensure the ground beef patty is 1/4 lb (113g) for optimal juiciness and flavor that matches the Checkerburger from Checkers. Use crisp iceberg lettuce leaves, ripe tomato slices, and dill pickle slices to replicate the fresh, tangy taste. American cheese should be melted directly on the patty for that classic creamy texture. Toast the sesame seed hamburger bun lightly to maintain softness while adding a subtle crunch. Your homemade Checkerburger copycat menu will capture the signature balance of savory, fresh, and tangy elements found at Checkers.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat grill or flat-top grill to medium-high heat.
- Portion ground beef into a 1/4 lb patty using the burger press.
- Season patty with salt and pepper (optional).
- Grill patty for 2-3 minutes on one side.
- Flip patty and grill for another 2-3 minutes, or until desired doneness.
- Place a slice of American cheese on patty during last 30 seconds of cooking.
- Remove patty and let it rest in a food holding tray.
- Slice lettuce, tomato, and pickles using appropriate slicers.
- Slice sesame seed bun horizontally with a knife.
- Toast both halves of the bun on a bun toaster or grill until golden.
- Assemble sandwich:
- a. Place bottom bun on sandwich assembly station.
- b. Add lettuce leaves.
- c. Add tomato slices.
- d. Place cooked, cheese-topped beef patty on top.
- e. Add pickle slices.
- f. Squeeze ketchup evenly over pickles.
- g. Top with upper bun half.
- Serve immediately in food holding tray or wrapper.
Substitution
The Checkerburger copycat menu replicates Checkers' signature burger with a juicy, seasoned beef patty, melted American cheese, crisp iceberg lettuce, ripe tomato slices, pickles, and tangy ketchup inside a soft sesame seed bun. If you don't have American cheese, cheddar or processed cheese slices can be used as a substitute to maintain that creamy texture. In case iceberg lettuce is unavailable, romaine or butter lettuce can provide a similar crunch and freshness. When fresh tomatoes are out of season or too expensive, using vine-ripened or even sun-dried tomatoes can add a burst of flavor. Your bun can be toasted on a flat-top grill or in a toaster for optimal softness and warmth before assembly.
Tips
Ensure the grill or flat-top is properly preheated to medium-high heat before placing the patty to achieve even cooking and optimal searing. Use a burger press to form consistent 1/4 lb patties, which helps maintain uniform cooking times and prevents breakage. Always rest the cooked patty in a food holding tray for a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute, keeping your burger juicy. When assembling, use the right slicers for lettuce, tomato, and pickles to maintain uniform thickness, enhancing both the texture and presentation of your Checkerburger.
Nutritions
The Checkerburger provides approximately 450-500 calories, primarily from the 1/4 lb seasoned ground beef patty, which delivers around 20-25 grams of protein and 15-20 grams of fat. The single slice of American cheese contributes calcium and an additional 5-7 grams of fat. Fresh vegetables like iceberg lettuce and tomato offer dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, while pickles add minimal calories with trace sodium. Your meal's carbohydrate content mainly comes from the soft sesame seed bun and ketchup, totaling about 30-40 grams.
Storage
To maintain the Checkerburger's freshness, store the cooked beef patties separately in airtight food holding trays at 140degF to keep them warm and safe for short-term serving. Keep the sliced vegetables--lettuce, tomato, and pickles--in chilled containers at 38-40degF to preserve crispness and prevent spoilage. You can extend the bun's freshness by wrapping it in a clean, dry cloth or placing it in sealed bags at room temperature, avoiding moisture buildup that could cause sogginess.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, swap the American cheese with pepper jack or cheddar to add a sharper flavor profile. You can enhance the patty by mixing in finely chopped onions or garlic before pressing and grilling. Consider using a brioche or pretzel bun instead of a sesame seed bun for a richer texture. Toasting the bun with a light spread of butter can elevate your burger's overall taste and aroma.
Allergies
The Checkerburger contains several common allergens, including dairy from American cheese and sesame from the sesame seed bun, which may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Ground beef and fresh vegetables typically pose low allergy risks, but cross-contamination during preparation is possible. Be sure to check with your server or restaurant staff if you have specific food allergies or dietary restrictions.
Why this recipe?
Checkerburger from Checkers restaurant is loved for its juicy, flame-grilled beef patty topped with fresh lettuce, ripe tomato, and tangy pickles, all nestled in a soft, toasted bun. The distinctive smoky flavor and balanced seasoning create a satisfying taste experience that keeps customers coming back. Making a copycat version allows you to recreate this unique flavor profile at home, ensuring you enjoy the same delicious quality without the wait. Your homemade Checkerburger will match the original's crave-worthy combination while giving you control over ingredients and customization.