J. J.'S HAMBURGER PATTIES

J. J.'S HAMBURGER PATTIES

A classic, flavorful homemade patty with plenty of seasoning, moisture, and texture so they cook up tender and juicy every time.

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Ingredients (Makes 6–8 patties)

• 2 pounds ground beef, preferably 80/20 for juiciness

• 1 small onion, very finely minced or grated

• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 large egg (helps bind, optional but recommended)

• 1/3 cup plain breadcrumbs or crushed crackers

• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tbsp yellow mustard

• 1 tsp soy sauce (deepens flavor)

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional heat)

• 2–3 tbsp cold water or beef broth to keep patties tender

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat Mixture

1. Place the ground beef in a large mixing bowl.

2. Add the minced onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and soy sauce.

3. Sprinkle in all seasonings: smoked paprika, salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne.

4. Drizzle 2–3 tablespoons cold water over the mixture—this helps keep the patties soft and juicy.

5. Gently combine with your hands or a wide fork. Do not overmix, or the patties may become tough.

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2. Shape the Patties

1. Divide the mixture into 6–8 equal portions depending on thickness preference.

2. Lightly wet your hands and shape each portion into a patty about ¾–1 inch thick.

3. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb.

   • This prevents doming and helps them cook evenly.

4. Place patties on a tray and refrigerate 20–30 minutes to firm up before cooking.

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3. Cooking Options

• Grill:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.

2. Oil the grates lightly.

3. Grill patties 4–5 minutes per side for medium, longer for well done.

4. Avoid pressing down on the patties—this squeezes out juices.

• Pan-Fry:

1. Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add a little oil or butter.

3. Cook patties 4–5 minutes per side.

4. Add cheese during the last 1–2 minutes if desired.

• Broil:

1. Preheat broiler and place patties on a broiler pan.

2. Broil about 4 inches from the heat for 4–5 minutes per side.

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4. Serving Suggestions

• Toasted brioche or sesame buns

• Add cheese: cheddar, American, pepper jack, Swiss

• Toppings: lettuce, tomatoes, caramelized onions, pickles, sautéed mushrooms

• Sauces: mayo, special sauce, BBQ sauce, chipotle aioli, mustard

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Tips for Best Results

• Start with cold beef—helps patties stay together.

• Don’t overwork the meat, mix only until combined.

• Rest the patties 5 minutes after cooking to let juices redistribute.

• For extra richness, mix in 1–2 tbsp cold butter, grated or finely chopped.

OTHER RECIPES

INGREDIENTS

• 5 lbs. ground beef (lean)
• 1 c. applesauce
• 1 c. Ritz cracker crumbs
• 1 env. Lipton Onion Soup Mix
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 5 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
• 3 tsp. Texas Pete or Tabasco sauce

INSTRUCTIONS

Mix all ingredients together and shape into patties. 

Use what you need and freeze the rest. Personal note: 

This freezes beautifully.

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