These Teriyaki Parmesan Burgers are a yummy twist on classic burgers! Juicy beef patties are topped with melty American cheese and a zesty teriyaki sauce, making every bite exciting.
You can’t go wrong with the sweet and savory flavors! I love serving these with crispy fries or a simple salad. Trust me, your taste buds will do a happy dance! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef (80/20): This ratio strikes a nice balance for juicy burgers. If you’re looking for leaner options, 90/10 works but may be a bit drier. You could also use turkey or chicken for a lighter choice.
Parmesan Cheese: It adds a lovely nutty flavor. For a dairy-free substitute, use nutritional yeast. If you don’t have Parmesan, grated pecorino or even a good sharp cheddar can add delicious taste.
Teriyaki Sauce: This is essential for that signature sweet-savory flavor. If you prefer homemade, mix soy sauce with brown sugar and ginger. For a lower sodium option, look for low-sodium teriyaki sauces.
American Cheese: It melts beautifully, but cheddar or provolone are good alternatives if you want a different flavor profile. Try a pepper jack for a spicy kick!
Hamburger Buns: While sesame seed buns are fun, any sturdy hamburger bun will do. Whole wheat or gluten-free options can work too, depending on your preference. Just make sure they hold up against the juicy burger!
How Do I Make Sure My Burgers Don’t Puff Up When Cooking?
To keep your burgers flat and evenly cooked, it’s helpful to create an indentation in each patty. This small step lets the heat circulate better and prevents puffing, leading to a perfectly cooked burger.
- When forming your patties, take a little extra meat in the center and press it down slightly. This should be about half an inch deep.
- Make sure not to overmix the meat, as this can toughen the burgers. Just mix until everything is combined.
- Cook the burgers on medium-high heat; too much heat can cause them to puff up as well.
How to Make Teriyaki Parmesan Burgers With American Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 hamburger buns (sesame seed or regular)
- Lettuce leaves (for serving)
- Olive oil or cooking spray (for grilling)
- Optional: sliced tomatoes and pickles (for garnish)
For the Side:
- French fries (for serving on the side)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the burger mixture and shaping the patties, then another 10 minutes cooking them up and getting everything ready to serve. Quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Burger Mixture:
In a large bowl, grab your ground beef and add the grated Parmesan cheese, teriyaki sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix everything together until it’s well combined. Be gentle—overworking the meat can make the burgers tough!
2. Shape the Patties:
Now, divide the beef mixture into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then gently flatten it to form a burger patty. Press a slight indentation in the center of each patty to keep them from puffing up while they cook. This little trick helps them cook evenly!
3. Preheat and Cook the Patties:
Get your grill or skillet warmed up over medium-high heat. Lightly grease it with olive oil or cooking spray so the burgers don’t stick. Place the patties on the grill and cook them for about 4-5 minutes on one side. Keep an eye on them as they will start to brown nicely!
4. Add the Cheese:
Once the patties are nicely browned, flip them over. Immediately place a slice of American cheese on top of each burger. Cook them for another 3-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and the burgers reach your preferred doneness.
5. Toast the Buns:
During the last minute of cooking, throw the hamburger buns on the grill or in the skillet to toast them until they’re golden brown. This adds a delicious crunch to every bite!
6. Assemble and Serve:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Start with the bottom bun and place a fresh lettuce leaf on it. Top it with your cheeseburger patty, drizzle some extra teriyaki sauce on it, and finish with the top bun. Serve your burgers hot with crispy French fries on the side, and feel free to add sliced tomatoes and pickles if you like. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a great alternative for a leaner burger. Keep in mind that these meats are typically more delicate and may require less cooking time. Just be sure to check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
What If I Don’t Have Teriyaki Sauce?
No worries! You can make a quick substitute by mixing soy sauce with a bit of sugar or honey and a splash of rice vinegar. A 3:1 ratio of soy sauce to sugar should work well, and it’ll give a similar sweet and savory flavor!
How Should I Store Leftover Burgers?
To store leftovers, let the burgers cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will last for up to 3 days. When reheating, consider using the skillet to keep them juicy and add a little fresh teriyaki sauce for extra flavor!
Can I Make These Burgers in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time! Shape them and place them between layers of parchment paper in an airtight container, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.
