The Little Cheeseburger from Five Guys features a juicy, grilled beef patty topped with melted American cheese, fresh lettuce, ripe tomato, and crunchy pickles, all nestled inside a soft, toasted bun for a classic, flavorful bite.
Equipments
- Grill or flat-top griddle
- Spatula
- Toaster or toaster oven
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Cheese slicer or knife
- Tongs
- Food thermometer
- Squeeze bottles (for condiments, optional)
- Prep bowls/trays
- Sandwich assembly board or plate
Ingredients
- 1/4 lb (113g) ground beef
- 1 slice American cheese
- 1 hamburger bun
- 2 leaves iceberg lettuce
- 2 slices tomato
- 4 dill pickle slices
Using fresh, high-quality ingredients like 1/4 lb ground beef and crisp iceberg lettuce ensures the best flavor and texture in your Little Cheeseburger. Select ripe tomato slices and crunchy dill pickles to add freshness and balance to the rich, melted American cheese. To maintain food safety and ideal doneness, use a food thermometer when grilling the beef patty. Toast the hamburger bun for a soft yet slightly crispy base that holds all the ingredients together without becoming soggy. You can recreate the classic taste of the Little Cheeseburger from Five Guys by following this copycat menu recipe, which captures its juicy, well-balanced, and satisfying bite perfectly.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat grill or flat-top griddle to medium-high heat.
- Portion 1/4 lb (113g) ground beef and form into a loose patty.
- Season patty with salt and pepper (if desired).
- Place patty on the hot grill/griddle.
- Cook first side for 3–4 minutes.
- Flip patty using spatula.
- Immediately top patty with 1 slice American cheese.
- Cook second side for 2–3 minutes, until cheese is melted and internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Split hamburger bun.
- Toast bun in toaster or on grill until lightly golden.
- Wash and dry 2 leaves iceberg lettuce and 2 slices tomato.
- Lay toasted bun bottom on sandwich assembly board or plate.
- Add lettuce leaves.
- Layer on tomato slices.
- Arrange 4 dill pickle slices on top.
- Place hot, cheesy beef patty over vegetables.
- Cap with toasted top bun.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Little Cheeseburger from Five Guys copycat recipe calls for a 1/4 lb grilled ground beef patty topped with American cheese, iceberg lettuce, tomato slices, and dill pickles on a toasted hamburger bun. You can substitute the American cheese with cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor profile, and iceberg lettuce can be replaced with romaine or butter lettuce for added crunch. If a grill or flat-top griddle is unavailable, a cast iron skillet works well to achieve a similar sear on the beef patty. When assembling, ensure the bun is toasted to prevent sogginess from the tomato and condiments. Using a food thermometer helps you cook the patty to a safe internal temperature of 160degF (71degC).
Tips
Make sure to preheat your grill or griddle to medium-high to ensure even cooking and prevent the patty from sticking. Use a food thermometer to confirm the burger's internal temperature reaches 160degF (71degC) for food safety and optimal juiciness. Toasting the bun until lightly golden enhances texture and flavor, while washing and drying lettuce and tomato keeps your sandwich fresh and crisp. Assemble your burger immediately after cooking to enjoy the perfect combination of warm, melted cheese and fresh toppings on a soft bun.
Nutritions
The Little Cheeseburger provides approximately 480 calories, with 26 grams of protein primarily from the 1/4 lb beef patty, supporting muscle maintenance and satiety. The American cheese adds about 6 grams of fat and calcium, while fresh vegetables like iceberg lettuce and tomato contribute essential vitamins A and C along with dietary fiber. This burger contains around 30 grams of carbohydrates mainly from the hamburger bun, offering energy for your day. You can enjoy this balanced meal knowing it delivers a satisfying blend of macronutrients and micronutrients in every bite.
Storage
Store the Little Cheeseburger in an airtight container to maintain freshness, ideally in the refrigerator at or below 40degF (4degC). Separate the bun and vegetables from the cooked beef patty before refrigerating to prevent sogginess and preserve texture. For reheating, use a grill or toaster oven to warm the beef patty and bun to an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC), ensuring safe consumption and optimal flavor.
Variation or Alternatives
You can vary the cheese by using sharp cheddar or pepper jack for a bolder flavor. For a healthier option, swap the beef patty with a grilled turkey or plant-based patty. Toasting the bun in butter adds extra richness and crunch. Consider adding caramelized onions or sauteed mushrooms to enhance the burger's savoriness without overwhelming its classic taste.
Allergies
The Little Cheeseburger from Five Guys contains common allergens such as dairy from the American cheese and gluten from the hamburger bun. Your sensitivity to beef or any preservatives in pickles could also cause reactions. Always check ingredient labels if you have specific food allergies or intolerances.
Why this recipe?
The Little Cheeseburger menu from Five Guys appeals to people for its customizable, juicy patties cooked fresh with quality ingredients like American cheese, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomatoes. Your craving is satisfied by the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making every bite delicious and memorable. Trying a copycat version allows you to replicate Five Guys' unique grilling style and fresh toppings, offering a satisfying homemade alternative. Experimenting at home also gives you control over portion size and ingredient freshness, enhancing your burger experience.