These Teriyaki Parmesan Burgers are a fun twist on a classic burger! Juicy beef patties are topped with a tasty teriyaki sauce and gooey American cheese, all mixed with Parmesan for extra flavor.
Every bite is a burst of sweet and savory goodness. Trust me, you’ll fall in love with this flavor combo! I like to serve mine with fries for the ultimate treat—perfect for a weekend grill! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is perfect for juicy burgers, but you can swap it with leaner ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Just keep in mind they may be less juicy.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice umami flavor. If you don’t have it, try using Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Teriyaki Sauce: A store-bought teriyaki sauce is convenient, but you can make your own with soy sauce, honey, and ginger. If you need a low-sodium version, look for low-sodium soy sauce at the store.
American Cheese: While it melts beautifully, feel free to switch it out with cheddar or pepper jack. They will change the flavor profile, but both are tasty alternatives.
How Do I Shape the Perfect Burger Patty?
Shaping the burger patty correctly is crucial for even cooking. Make sure to handle the meat gently to keep it tender. Try this method:
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl without overmixing.
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions. A kitchen scale helps if you want them even.
- Shape each portion into a patty about 3/4 inch thick. Remember to create a slight indentation in the center with your thumb; this prevents puffing while cooking!
This simple step can make a big difference in your burger texture and cooking time!
How to Make Teriyaki Parmesan Burgers With American Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- 4 lettuce leaves (optional, for garnish)
For Serving:
- French fries (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take you around 10-15 minutes to prep and about 12-15 minutes for cooking. In total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes to enjoy these tasty teriyaki parmesan burgers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Combine the ground beef, grated Parmesan cheese, teriyaki sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything together gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as you want your burgers to stay tender and juicy!
2. Shaping the Patties:
Now it’s time to form the patties! Divide your mixture into four equal parts and shape each part into a burger patty that’s about 3/4 inch thick. To help them cook evenly and avoid puffing up, use your thumb to create a small indentation in the center of each patty.
3. Cooking the Patties:
Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the patties on it and cook for about 4-5 minutes. You want a nice golden sear on one side! Flip the patties over and immediately place a slice of American cheese on top of each one. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the burgers reach your desired doneness (145°F is great for medium!).
4. Toasting the Buns:
While your burgers are cooking, take the sesame seed buns and toast them lightly on the grill or in a toaster until they’re golden brown. This adds a nice crunch!
5. Assembling the Burgers:
Now for the best part! Start with the bottom half of the toasted bun. Place a fresh lettuce leaf on it, followed by the juicy burger patty topped with the ooey-gooey melted cheese. Drizzle some extra teriyaki sauce over the burger, then finish with the top bun. Perfectly assembled!
6. Time to Serve:
Serve your delicious teriyaki parmesan burgers hot with a side of crispy French fries. Grab a napkin and enjoy your homemade feast!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just be aware that turkey can be drier than beef, so you might want to add a bit more teriyaki sauce or some olive oil to maintain moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Teriyaki Sauce?
If you don’t have teriyaki sauce on hand, you can use soy sauce combined with a bit of honey or brown sugar for sweetness. You might also add a splash of rice vinegar for a bit of tang. Just mix those ingredients to taste!
How Should I Store Leftover Burgers?
Leftover burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. If necessary, add a little extra teriyaki sauce to keep them juicy!
Can I Freeze These Burgers Before Cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked patties! Just shape the patties, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, and then store them in a freezer-safe bag. They will last about 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw them in the fridge overnight before grilling.
