Shoney's Signature Burger from Shoney's features a juicy flame-grilled beef patty topped with melted cheddar cheese, crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, pickles, and a tangy special sauce, all nestled between a toasted sesame seed bun for a classic, mouthwatering burger experience.
Equipments
- Grill or flat-top griddle
- Spatula
- Cheese slicer or pre-sliced cheddar cheese
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Bun toaster or toaster
- Mixing bowl (for special sauce)
- Spoon or small whisk (for mixing sauce)
- Food thermometer (optional, for beef patty doneness)
- Assembly tray or clean prep surface
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 2 medium tomatoes
- 8 dill pickle slices
- Salt
- Black pepper
- For the special sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Using an 80/20 ground beef blend ensures the patty stays juicy and flavorful when grilled. Fresh tomatoes and crisp iceberg lettuce add essential texture and freshness to complement the rich cheddar cheese and tangy special sauce. Toasting the sesame seed buns enhances their flavor and prevents sogginess during assembly. For best results, season the beef patty with salt and black pepper just before grilling to maintain its natural juices. Your homemade Shoney's Signature Burger achieves that perfect balance of classic toppings and bold flavors, replicating the original's mouthwatering taste from Shoney's copycat menu.
Instructions
- Preheat grill or flat-top griddle.
- Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions; shape into patties.
- Season both sides of patties with salt and black pepper.
- Grill patties to desired doneness, flipping once.
- Place cheddar cheese slice on each patty during last minute of cooking; let melt.
- While patties cook, toast sesame seed buns until golden.
- Prepare special sauce: combine mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, relish, vinegar, and paprika in mixing bowl; mix well.
- Wash and slice tomatoes.
- Shred iceberg lettuce if not pre-shredded.
- Place bottom bun on assembly tray or clean prep surface.
- Spread special sauce on bottom bun.
- Layer lettuce, tomato slices, and pickle slices on sauce.
- Place cooked cheeseburger patty on top of veggies.
- Spread more special sauce on top bun (optional).
- Top burger with other half of bun.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Shoney's Signature Burger from Shoney's copycat menu offers a juicy flame-grilled beef patty topped with melted cheddar cheese, crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, pickles, and tangy special sauce on a toasted sesame seed bun. If you don't have a grill, a flat-top griddle or cast iron skillet works well to achieve a flavorful crust on your beef patty. Pre-sliced cheddar cheese can save prep time, but slicing fresh blocks ensures better melting quality. Feel free to substitute iceberg lettuce with romaine or butter lettuce for a different texture. Your special sauce can be adjusted by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper if you prefer a spicier kick.
Tips
Ensure the beef patties are evenly sized and not over-handled to maintain juiciness and tenderness. Use a food thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 160degF (71degC) for safe consumption. When toasting buns, watch closely to prevent burning and achieve a golden, crispy texture. Your special sauce should be mixed thoroughly to combine flavors evenly and can be adjusted to taste for a personalized touch.
Nutritions
Shoney's Signature Burger provides a balanced mix of protein and fats, with the 80/20 ground beef patty delivering approximately 20 grams of protein and 18 grams of fat per serving. The melted cheddar cheese adds calcium and additional protein, contributing around 7 grams per slice, while the fresh vegetables like lettuce and tomatoes supply dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. The special sauce contains mayonnaise and ketchup, which contribute small amounts of fat and sugars, impacting the overall calorie count. You can enjoy this classic burger as an indulgent meal option that offers satisfying fullness through its protein and fat content.
Storage
Store leftover Shoney's Signature Burger components separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Refrigerate cooked beef patties and special sauce promptly within two hours, using them within 3-4 days for optimal taste and safety. Your toasted buns and fresh vegetables are best kept in sealed bags or containers and consumed within 1-2 days to preserve texture and flavor.
Variation or Alternatives
Swap the cheddar cheese with pepper jack or Swiss for a different flavor profile that complements the beef patty. You can marinate the beef patties in Worcestershire sauce and garlic powder before grilling to enhance juiciness and taste. For a healthier twist, consider whole wheat buns or lettuce wraps instead of traditional sesame seed buns. Your special sauce can be spiced up by adding a dash of hot sauce or smoked paprika for extra depth.
Allergies
Shoney's Signature Burger contains common allergens such as dairy from cheddar cheese and mayonnaise, gluten from the sesame seed buns, and eggs in the mayonnaise-based special sauce. The sesame seeds on the buns may also trigger allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to sesame. If you have food allergies, it is important to confirm ingredient details and potential cross-contamination risks before enjoying your meal.
Why this recipe?
Shoney's Signature Burger menu is loved for its perfect balance of fresh, high-quality ingredients, including juicy beef patties, melted American cheese, crisp lettuce, and tangy pickles on a toasted bun. The combination of flavors and textures creates a satisfying, classic burger experience that appeals to a wide range of tastes. You'll find that replicating this recipe offers a rewarding cooking challenge and allows you to enjoy a beloved diner favorite from the comfort of your own kitchen. Making a copycat Shoney's Signature Burger lets you customize the flavors and savor the nostalgic taste any time.