Dave's Single from Wendy's features a juicy, seasoned beef patty topped with melted American cheese, fresh lettuce, ripe tomato slices, crisp pickles, onions, ketchup, and creamy mayo, all nestled inside a soft, toasted sesame seed bun for a classic, satisfying burger experience.
Equipments
- Grill or flat-top griddle
- Spatula
- Toaster or pan for toasting buns
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Squeeze bottles (for ketchup and mayo)
- Tongs
- Cheese slicer (optional)
- Food prep gloves
- Prep bowls or containers
Ingredients
- 1/4 lb (115g) ground beef patty
- 1 slice American cheese
- Sesame seed hamburger bun
- Leaf lettuce
- Tomato
- Pickle slices
- Onion
- Ketchup
- Mayonnaise
- Salt
- Black pepper
Freshness of ingredients significantly impacts the taste of your homemade Dave's Single from Wendy's copycat burger, so choose ripe tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and firm pickles for optimal flavor and texture. Season the 1/4 lb ground beef patty with salt and black pepper before grilling to enhance its natural juiciness and savory profile. Toast the sesame seed bun to add a slight crunch and warmth, which complements the softness and supports the juicy patty and melted American cheese. Use squeeze bottles to evenly spread ketchup and creamy mayonnaise, ensuring balanced moisture and flavor in every bite. Mastering these ingredient details will help you recreate the classic taste and satisfying experience of a Dave's Single from Wendy's copycat menu.
Instructions
- Preheat grill or flat-top griddle to medium-high heat.
- Form ground beef into a 1/4 lb (115g) patty.
- Season both sides of the beef patty with salt and black pepper.
- Place the patty on the hot grill or griddle.
- Cook the patty for about 2-3 minutes on the first side.
- Flip the patty using a spatula.
- Lay 1 slice of American cheese on top of the patty.
- Continue cooking until cheese melts and patty is fully cooked (about 2-3 more minutes).
- Split the sesame seed bun.
- Toast bun halves on toaster or pan until golden brown.
- Wash and dry leaf lettuce.
- Slice tomato and onion using a chef’s knife and cutting board.
- Place bottom bun on a prep surface or plate.
- Spread mayonnaise onto the bottom bun using a squeeze bottle.
- Layer lettuce atop bottom bun.
- Add 2–3 tomato slices on top of lettuce.
- Place cheeseburger patty on top of tomatoes.
- Arrange pickle slices and onion slices on top of the patty.
- Squeeze ketchup onto the inside of the top bun.
- Place the top bun over the assembled ingredients.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Dave's Single from Wendy's copycat menu highlights a flavorful 1/4 lb seasoned beef patty combined with American cheese and fresh vegetable toppings inside a toasted sesame seed bun. You can easily substitute American cheese with cheddar or Swiss for a different taste profile without compromising moisture. If fresh lettuce or tomato is unavailable, crisp iceberg lettuce or roasted red pepper slices work well as alternatives. When grilling the beef patty, aim for medium doneness to retain juiciness, and season with salt and pepper just before cooking to enhance flavor. Toasting the bun on a griddle or pan adds texture, but a conventional toaster can be used for convenience.
Tips
Make sure your grill or griddle is properly preheated to medium-high heat before cooking the beef patty to ensure even cooking and a good sear. When forming the 1/4 lb patty, avoid overhandling the meat to keep it tender and juicy. Use a clean chef's knife and cutting board to slice fresh tomato, onion, and lettuce so your burger stays crisp and flavorful. Toast your sesame seed bun just until golden brown to prevent it from becoming soggy when layering with mayo, ketchup, and other ingredients for optimal texture.
Nutritions
Dave's Single delivers approximately 570 calories, with the 1/4 lb beef patty providing around 250 calories and 20 grams of protein to support muscle health. The American cheese adds about 60 calories and 4 grams of fat, contributing to the burger's creamy texture. Fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomato, and onions offer dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, while the mayonnaise and ketchup add fats and sugars, influencing overall calorie content. Your meal includes essential nutrients but also contains sodium levels that might be significant for those monitoring salt intake.
Storage
To preserve the freshness of your Dave's Single from Wendy's, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator within two hours of preparation. Place it on a plate or shallow container to prevent the bun from becoming soggy and consume within 1-2 days for optimal taste. Reheat the patty and bun separately in a toaster or oven to maintain texture, and avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
Variation or Alternatives
You can switch the American cheese for cheddar or pepper jack to add a different flavor profile. Try grilling the onions for a sweeter, caramelized taste instead of serving them raw. Swap mayonnaise for a tangy aioli or mustard to give your burger a unique twist. Experiment with brioche buns or lettuce wraps if you want a softer or low-carb option.
Allergies
Dave's Single from Wendy's contains common allergens such as dairy from the American cheese and eggs in the mayonnaise, which may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. The sesame seeds on the bun pose a risk for those with sesame allergies, and the burger's components may also include traces of gluten and soy. Ensure you check ingredient details carefully if you have any food sensitivities or allergies to avoid adverse effects.
Why this recipe?
Dave's Single from Wendy's restaurant is celebrated for its fresh, never frozen beef patty cooked to juicy perfection. The combination of melted American cheese, crisp lettuce, ripe tomato, and tangy pickles on a toasted bun creates a balanced, flavorful experience. Your taste buds will appreciate the harmony of classic ingredients crafted with quality and care. Attempting a copycat recipe lets you recreate this iconic burger at home, offering both satisfaction and a personalized touch to replicate Wendy's signature taste.