Description
This California Burger combines juicy grilled beef patties with creamy avocado, fresh tomato, crisp lettuce, and a zesty mayo-lime spread. Topped with melted pepper jack or cheddar cheese and served on toasted buns, it delivers a flavorful, fresh twist on the classic cheeseburger perfect for any casual meal or cookout.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Patties and Burger:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 slices pepper jack or cheddar cheese
- 4 hamburger buns (toasted)
- 4 leaves romaine or butter lettuce
- 1 medium tomato, sliced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Red onion slices (optional)
For the Zesty Spread:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Prepare the zesty spread: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, lime juice, and garlic powder. Mix well to create a tangy and flavorful mayo-lime sauce. Set aside.
- Form the patties: Divide the ground beef into four equal portions. Shape each into a round patty about 3/4 inch thick. Season both sides evenly with salt and black pepper.
- Cook the patties: Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Place the patties on the grill or pan and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until they reach desired doneness. In the last minute of cooking, lay a slice of cheese on each patty and cover the grill or pan to allow the cheese to melt perfectly.
- Toast the buns: Lightly toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster until golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Assemble the burgers: Spread the prepared mayo-lime sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Layer with lettuce leaves, the cheesy burger patty, sliced tomato, avocado slices, and red onion if using. Top with the bun crown and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For extra flavor, mash the avocado with a pinch of salt and additional lime juice to create a quick guacamole to spread on the buns.
- Substitute turkey or plant-based patties if preferred—these toppings complement them well.
- Use romaine for crunch or butter lettuce for a softer bite based on your preference.
- Red onion is optional but adds a nice sharpness that contrasts well with the creamy avocado.
