The Double Del Cheeseburger from Del Taco features two juicy seasoned beef patties, melted American cheese, fresh shredded lettuce, diced onions, and tangy pickles nestled in a soft, toasted bun, delivering a savory and satisfying bite with every mouthful.
Equipments
- Grill
- Spatula
- Cheese slicer or pre-sliced cheese
- Lettuce shredder or knife
- Onion dicer
- Pickle slicer or knife
- Bun toaster or grill
- Assembly table
- Food-safe gloves
- Serving tray or wrapper
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 4 slices American cheese
- 2 hamburger buns
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/4 cup diced onions
- 8 pickle slices
- Salt
- Black pepper
When preparing the Double Del Cheeseburger, ensure you use fresh ground beef with a recommended fat content of around 20% for juiciness and flavor. Use pre-sliced American cheese to achieve the classic melt without overcooking the patties. Fresh shredded lettuce and diced onions add crisp texture and brightness, so avoid using pre-packaged or wilted produce. Lightly toasting the hamburger buns enhances both the texture and flavor of your burger. Making this Double Del Cheeseburger from Del Taco copycat at home allows you to customize the seasoning and freshness to suit your taste perfectly.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Divide ground beef into four equal portions and shape into patties.
- Season patties with salt and black pepper.
- Place patties on grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
- Place a slice of American cheese on each patty during the last minute of cooking, allowing it to melt.
- While patties cook, toast hamburger buns on grill or bun toaster until lightly golden.
- On assembly table, lay out bottom buns.
- Layer each bottom bun with a handful of shredded lettuce.
- Add 2 tablespoons diced onions over lettuce.
- Place four pickle slices on each bun.
- Stack two cooked beef patties with melted cheese onto each bun.
- Top with the toasted top buns.
- Wrap or place burger on serving tray.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Creating a Double Del Cheeseburger from Del Taco at home allows you to customize ingredients and control seasoning. If American cheese is unavailable, cheddar or processed cheese slices provide a similar melt and flavor profile. You can substitute iceberg lettuce with romaine or butter lettuce for a different texture while maintaining freshness. When fresh pickles aren't accessible, jarred dill or bread-and-butter pickles serve as tasty alternatives. To achieve even cooking, use a spatula to press the patties gently on the grill and ensure the buns toast evenly either on the grill or in a toaster. Your homemade burger will taste best when assembled immediately after grilling and melting the cheese.
Tips
Make sure your grill is properly preheated to medium-high to ensure the patties cook evenly and develop a nice sear. Use food-safe gloves while handling raw beef and fresh vegetables to maintain hygiene and prevent cross-contamination. When assembling, distribute lettuce and onions evenly to avoid biting into an uneven texture or flavor. You'll get the best melt on your American cheese by adding it during the last minute of cooking on the grill.
Nutritions
The Double Del Cheeseburger provides a substantial amount of protein, primarily from its two seasoned beef patties, supporting muscle repair and energy. Its American cheese slices contribute calcium and fat, essential for bone health and satiety. The fresh shredded lettuce, diced onions, and pickles add fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, enhancing overall nutrient density. Your meal balances savory flavors with essential nutrients but can be high in sodium and saturated fat, so it's best enjoyed in moderation.
Storage
Store your Double Del Cheeseburger wrapped tightly in foil or placed in an airtight container to retain moisture and heat. Keep refrigerated if not consuming immediately, and reheat on a grill or skillet to restore the melty cheese and toasted bun texture. Avoid microwaving directly to maintain quality of the beef patties and freshness of the vegetables.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap American cheese for cheddar or pepper jack to add a sharper or spicier flavor profile. Instead of shredded lettuce, crisp iceberg or butter lettuce leaves provide a different texture and freshness. Grilling the onions before adding them creates a sweeter, caramelized taste that complements the beef patties. For a healthier option, try using a whole wheat or brioche bun to enhance nutritional value and add subtle sweetness.
Allergies
The Double Del Cheeseburger contains common allergens such as dairy from the American cheese and wheat in the hamburger buns. Ground beef, while not a typical allergen, can pose issues for those with meat sensitivities or specific dietary restrictions. Your allergy concerns should also consider potential cross-contact with onions or pickles for those sensitive to certain vegetables or preservatives.
Why this recipe?
The Double Del Cheeseburger from Del Taco restaurant is highly favored for its juicy, seasoned beef patties paired with melted cheddar cheese, fresh lettuce, and their signature sauces that create a perfect balance of flavors. The menu item combines quality ingredients and generous portions, delivering great taste and value that appeals to burger lovers. Recreating this iconic burger at home allows you to customize the recipe to your preferences while enjoying a restaurant-quality meal made with fresh, hand-selected ingredients. Making the copycat version is worth it for anyone seeking to replicate the delicious, crave-worthy experience without the hassle of going out.