Five Guys is famous for its juicy, flavorful burgers made with fresh ingredients, hand-formed patties, and a simple but delicious cooking method. Their burgers are known for their signature smash technique, which locks in the juices while creating a crispy, caramelized crust. If you want to recreate a classic Five Guys burger at home, this step-by-step guide will show you how to make a perfectly grilled, mouthwatering burger just like the ones from the restaurant.
How to Make this Burger
Making a Five Guys-style burger involves preparing high-quality beef patties, seasoning them simply, smashing them on a hot griddle, and assembling them with fresh toppings and a soft toasted bun. The key is to use fresh, never frozen beef, cook it on high heat, and use simple seasonings to enhance the natural flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- Salt and black pepper
- 4 hamburger buns
- 4 slices American cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- ½ cup shredded lettuce
- 4 tomato slices
- 4 pickle slices
- ¼ cup diced onions
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon mustard
Instructions
- Prepare the patties: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape them into loose balls without overpacking.
- Preheat the griddle: Heat a flat-top griddle or cast-iron skillet to high heat. Lightly grease with oil.
- Smash the patties: Place a ball of beef on the hot surface and use a spatula or burger press to smash it flat (about ¼-inch thick). Season with salt and black pepper.
- Cook the patties: Let them cook for about 2 minutes without moving them. Flip, add a slice of cheese, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Toast the buns: Spread butter on the inside of the buns and toast them on the griddle until golden brown.
- Assemble the burger: Spread mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard on the toasted buns. Add lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onions. Place the cheesy patty on top and close the burger with the top bun.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy your homemade Five Guys burger while it’s hot and juicy.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of crispy homemade Five Guys-style fries for the full experience.
- Pair with a classic Five Guys milkshake to complete the meal.
- Add extra grilled onions and mushrooms for a more flavorful burger.
- Serve with a variety of dipping sauces like BBQ sauce, mayo, or spicy ketchup.
- Wrap the burger in aluminum foil to let the flavors blend, just like at Five Guys.
Tips and Variations
- Use fresh ground beef: Avoid pre-made patties for the juiciest, most flavorful burger.
- Smash quickly: Press the patties down immediately for the perfect crispy crust.
- Double up: Make it a Five Guys-style double cheeseburger by stacking two patties.
- Experiment with toppings: Add jalapeños, grilled mushrooms, or extra cheese.
- Try different buns: Use potato buns, brioche buns, or lettuce wraps for variety.
Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Serving Size: 4 burgers
Nutrition Information
- Calories: ~750 kcal
- Carbohydrates: ~35g
- Protein: ~40g
- Fat: ~50g
- Sodium: ~850mg
Ingredient Substitutes
- Ground beef alternative: Use ground turkey or plant-based patties.
- American cheese substitute: Try cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack.
- Peanut oil alternative: Use vegetable oil if needed for cooking.
- Lettuce wrap option: Skip the bun for a low-carb burger.
- Dairy-free version: Use vegan cheese and dairy-free butter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen beef patties?
Fresh beef is best, but if using frozen, thaw them completely before cooking.
Why do Five Guys burgers taste different?
The secret is in the fresh beef, simple seasoning, smash technique, and high-heat cooking.
Can I cook this burger on a regular frying pan?
Yes, a cast-iron skillet works best, but any heavy pan will do.
How do I make a double cheeseburger?
Simply cook two patties and stack them with cheese in between.
Can I grill these burgers instead?
Yes, but for the authentic Five Guys taste, cook on a griddle or skillet.
Conclusion
Making a Five Guys burger at home is simple and incredibly rewarding. With high-quality beef, the right smash technique, and fresh toppings, you can enjoy the same juicy, flavorful burger without leaving your kitchen. Try different variations, pair with classic sides, and enjoy the perfect homemade burger experience.
Five Guys Burger Recipe
Ingredients
Instructions
Prepare the patties
Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape them into loose balls without overpacking.
Preheat the griddle
Heat a flat-top griddle or cast-iron skillet to high heat. Lightly grease with oil.
Smash the patties
Place a ball of beef on the hot surface and use a spatula or burger press to smash it flat (about ¼-inch thick). Season with salt and black pepper.
Cook the patties
Let them cook for about 2 minutes without moving them. Flip, add a slice of cheese, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts.
Toast the buns
Spread butter on the inside of the buns and toast them on the griddle until golden brown.
Assemble the burger
Spread mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard on the toasted buns. Add lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onions. Place the cheesy patty on top and close the burger with the top bun.
Serve immediately
Enjoy your homemade Five Guys burger while it's hot and juicy.
