Step 3: Assemble, serve and store the burgers

STEP 3 OF 3

Assemble, serve and store the burgers

Spread the sauce over the toasted bun halves, dividing it evenly. Place a dry lettuce leaf on each bottom bun, then add a hot cheeseburger patty. Finish each with 1 tomato slice, a few onion rings and 3 pickle slices. Add the bun tops and serve promptly while the cheese is soft and the toasted surfaces are still crisp.

Serving ideas

Serve with oven-baked potato wedges, a crunchy cabbage slaw or a simple green salad. For another straightforward supper on a different night, try our tomato chickpea skillet. You can also browse the complete recipe collection for more everyday meal ideas.

Storage and reheating

Store leftover cooked patties separately from the buns, sauce and fresh toppings. Refrigerate promptly in a shallow, covered container within 2 hours of cooking, or within 1 hour if the temperature is above 90°F (32°C). Keep the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below and use the cooked beef within 3–4 days. Assembled burgers become soggy, so build fresh ones after reheating.

To reheat a chilled patty, put it in a skillet over medium-low heat with a small splash of water and cover. Turn as needed and heat until the center reaches 165°F (74°C), then add fresh cheese if desired. Toast the bun separately and add cold toppings afterward. Freeze cooled cooked patties in airtight packaging if you will not use them within the refrigerator window, and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating. See USDA guidance on safe leftovers for handling advice.