McDonald’s Quarter Pounder
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Want to make a McDonald’s Quarter Pounder at home? You can whip up this classic burger in just 25 minutes. The secret is using 1 1/3 pounds of ground beef chuck for 4 servings, which allows for some shrinkage during cooking.
This recipe mimics the real deal with simple ingredients like sesame seed buns, American cheese, pickles, onions, mustard and ketchup. You’ll toast the buns, cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, then build your burgers. Each serving packs 675 calories of beefy, cheesy goodness.
Exact Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make your own McDonald’s-style Quarter Pounder at home:
• 1 1/3 pounds ground beef chuck
• 4 sesame seed hamburger buns
• 8 slices American cheese
• 8 dill pickle slices
• 1 tablespoon sliced white onions
• 1 1/3 tablespoons mustard
• 3 1/3 to 4 tablespoons ketchup
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
These ingredients will make 4 Quarter Pounder burgers. You might already have some of these items in your kitchen. The ground beef chuck is key for that juicy, beefy flavor.
Don’t forget to pick up sesame seed buns for that authentic McDonald’s look and taste. The American cheese slices melt perfectly on the hot patties.
For toppings, you’ll need dill pickle slices, white onions, mustard, and ketchup. These add tangy, sweet, and savory flavors to your burger.
Remember to season your patties with salt while cooking for the best taste. Now you’re all set to make your own Quarter Pounders at home!
Instructions
- If using dried (dehydrated) onions, rehydrate them with warm water for 15 minutes then drain off the excess water.
- Toast the buns in a cast iron or stainless steel skillet over medium heat for about a minute or until browned.
- Form the beef into 4 equal balls and place each ball between waxed paper or plastic wrap and gently press the meat into discs.
- Cook the patties in the skillet for 3 to 4 minutes on each side.
- Season the patties with salt before and after you flip them over in the skillet.
- Place a bottom bun on a plate.
- Place a slice of cheese on the bun, then a burger patty, and then another cheese slice.
- Top with pickles, onions, ketchup, and mustard.
- Cover the burger with the top bun.
- Repeat building the burgers with the remaining ingredients.
Possible Substitutes List & Recipe Variations
Want to change up your Quarter Pounder? Try these tasty swaps and tweaks!
Cheese options:
- Swiss
- Cheddar
- Pepper jack
Bun alternatives:
- Whole wheat
- Brioche
- Pretzel roll
Spice it up with different toppings:
- Crispy bacon
- Sliced avocado
- Sautéed mushrooms
- Jalapeños
For a lighter version, try using:
- Ground turkey instead of beef
- Lettuce wrap instead of a bun
You can also experiment with sauces:
- BBQ sauce
- Garlic aioli
- Chipotle mayo
Want a different flavor profile? Add:
- Grilled pineapple for a tropical twist
- Fried egg for a breakfast-inspired burger
- Caramelized onions for extra sweetness
Remember, cooking times may vary with different ingredients. Adjust as needed to ensure your burger is cooked to your liking.
Tips, Tricks & Storing
For the best Quarter Pounder, use 80/20 ground chuck. This fat content gives the patty a juicy texture and rich flavor.
Don’t overwork the meat when shaping the patties. Gently form them and make a small indent in the center with your thumb. This helps them cook evenly.
Preheat your skillet before cooking. A hot surface gives the patties a nice crust.
Flip the burgers only once during cooking. This helps keep them juicy.
Let the patties rest for a minute after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute.
To store leftovers, wrap each burger in foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
For make-ahead prep, shape the patties and separate them with wax paper. Store in the fridge for up to a day before cooking.
Try toasting the buns with a bit of butter for extra flavor. Be careful not to burn them!
Experiment with cheese options. While American is classic, cheddar or Swiss can add variety.