Five Guys Burger Copycat Recipe

If you love a good, juicy burger with a perfect sear and that unbeatable fast-food flavor, this Five Guys Burger Copycat is your golden ticket. It captures everything you crave from the original: those crispy burger edges, melty cheese, and fresh toppings stacked between a soft, toasted bun. Best of all? You can make it right in your own kitchen in under 30 minutes. This recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, weekend cookouts, or any time the burger cravings hit hard.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Satisfying: You can have this burger sizzling on your plate in less than half an hour.
• Customizable: Choose your toppings, condiments, and cheese just the way you like them.
• Deliciously Authentic: It mirrors the texture and taste of the real Five Guys burger without leaving home.
• Budget-Friendly: Making these at home is way more affordable than eating out!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you need to get started on your Five Guys-style burger:

• Ground Beef: Use 80/20 ground chuck for that juicy, beefy flavor and crispy edges.
• Salt & Pepper: That’s all the seasoning you need to let the beef shine.
• American Cheese: Classic and melty, just like the original.
• Hamburger Buns: Soft sesame seed buns work perfectly; toast them for extra flavor.
• Butter: For toasting the buns and adding richness.
• Pickles: Adds a nice tang and crunch.
• Lettuce: Use shredded iceberg for a cool, crisp bite.
• Tomato: Sliced fresh for a juicy layer.
• Grilled Onions: Caramelized for that sweet, savory kick.
• Ketchup & Mustard: Classic condiments that balance the flavors.

Variations

• Double Down: Add an extra patty for a heartier burger.
• Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for heat lovers.
• Bacon Burger: Crispy bacon strips take it over the top.
• Mushroom Melt: Sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese for a gourmet twist.
• Low-Carb: Swap the bun for lettuce wraps.

How to Make Five Guys Burger Copycat

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Lightly butter and toast the buns cut side down until golden and crisp. Set aside.

Step 2: Shape and Season the Patties

Divide the ground beef into loose balls (about 3 oz each) without overworking it. Flatten into thin patties right before cooking. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Sear the Patties

Place patties in the hot skillet and smash them gently with a spatula to get a good sear. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until crispy and browned.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Once you flip the patties, add a slice of American cheese to each one. Let it melt while the other side finishes cooking.

Step 5: Assemble the Burger

Start with the bottom bun, then layer your patties, toppings (lettuce, tomato, grilled onions, pickles), and finish with ketchup and mustard. Top with the other bun.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Smash, Don’t Press: Press the patty once at the beginning to get that signature sear. Don’t keep pressing or you’ll lose the juices.
• Hot Pan Is Key: A hot skillet is essential for that crispy burger edge.
• Melt Matters: Use a lid or dome over the skillet briefly to melt the cheese perfectly.
• Prep Toppings First: Get all your toppings ready before cooking so you can build the burger while the patties are hot.

How to Serve

Serve your burgers hot and fresh off the skillet. Pair with crispy fries, onion rings, or even a side of coleslaw. Add a milkshake if you’re going for the full fast-food experience.

Optional Tip: Wrap the burger in foil for a few minutes after assembling—it slightly steams the bun and brings everything together, just like at Five Guys.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover patties tightly in foil or an airtight container. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Raw patties can be shaped and frozen between parchment paper for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before cooking.

Reheating

Reheat cooked patties in a skillet or microwave. If using a skillet, cover with a lid and heat over low until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use leaner beef for this recipe?
You can, but it won’t have the same juicy texture. 80/20 ground chuck is ideal for a true Five Guys-style burger.

Do I need a cast-iron skillet?
It’s recommended because it gets super hot and holds heat well, but any heavy pan will work.

How do I keep the patties from shrinking too much?
Start with wider, thinner patties, and don’t overwork the meat when shaping them.

Can I cook these on a grill instead?
Yes, though you won’t get quite the same sear. Use a flat griddle plate if possible on the grill for best results.

Final Thoughts

This Five Guys Burger Copycat is the ultimate homemade fast-food fix. It’s everything you love about the original burger, made fresh in your own kitchen. Juicy, cheesy, and totally customizable, this recipe is sure to become your go-to whenever that burger craving strikes. Give it a try and taste the magic for yourself!

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