White Castle Hamburger Recipe

Ground beef: The main protein component, providing the juicy and flavorful base for the sliders.

Dry onion soup mix: A seasoning blend that adds depth and a savory onion flavor to the beef.

Water: Used to help mix and distribute the dry soup mix evenly throughout the beef.

Dinner rolls: Soft, small buns that serve as the perfect vehicle for these mini burgers.

Chopped onions: Adds a sweet and aromatic element when cooked, complementing the beef.

American cheese: Melts beautifully over the beef, adding a creamy and rich texture.

Pickles: Provide a tangy and crunchy contrast to the savory and cheesy elements of the burger.

To achieve the signature texture of White Castle hamburgers, ensure the ground beef mixture is spread evenly and thinly on the baking sheet. This helps in creating the classic, thin patty that cooks evenly. When cooking the chopped onions, use a low to medium heat to slowly caramelize them, enhancing their sweetness and flavor. This step is crucial as the onions are a key component in replicating the authentic taste. Additionally, when assembling, allow the cheese to slightly melt over the warm beef squares for a creamy texture that complements the savory flavors.

• ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and provides a similar texture and flavor profile when seasoned well.

• ground beef - Substitute with plant-based ground meat: For a vegetarian or vegan option, plant-based ground meat offers a similar texture and can be seasoned to mimic the flavor of beef.

• dry onion soup mix - Substitute with homemade onion seasoning: Combine dried onion flakes, beef bouillon granules, onion powder, and a pinch of salt to replicate the flavor of the soup mix.

• dry onion soup mix - Substitute with beef bouillon and onion powder: Use beef bouillon for the savory depth and onion powder for the onion flavor.

• dinner rolls - Substitute with slider buns: Slider buns are similar in size and texture, making them a perfect alternative for small hamburgers.

• dinner rolls - Substitute with Hawaiian rolls: These rolls add a touch of sweetness that complements the savory flavors of the burgers.

• chopped onions - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder onion flavor and can be used in the same way as chopped onions.

• chopped onions - Substitute with leeks: Leeks provide a subtle onion flavor and a slightly different texture, which can add a unique twist to the dish.

• american cheese - Substitute with cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese provides a similar melt and a richer flavor profile.

• american cheese - Substitute with Swiss cheese: Swiss cheese melts well and adds a nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients.

• pickles - Substitute with cucumber slices: Fresh cucumber slices offer a crisp texture and mild flavor as a fresh alternative to pickles.

• pickles - Substitute with jalapeño slices: For a spicy kick, jalapeño slices can replace pickles and add a new dimension of flavor.

• Allow the hamburger patties to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the burgers soggy.

• For short-term storage, place the hamburger patties in an airtight container. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• If you plan to freeze the hamburger patties, wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This ensures they maintain their shape and flavor.

• Once wrapped, place the hamburger patties in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

• To reheat, thaw the hamburger patties in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps retain moisture and flavor.

• For reheating, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the hamburger patties on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

• Alternatively, reheat the hamburger patties in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water and cover with a lid to steam them back to life, ensuring they remain juicy.

• Assemble the burgers with fresh dinner rolls, cheese, and pickles for the best taste experience.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap each burger in aluminum foil to keep them moist and prevent them from drying out. Place them on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes. This method ensures the cheese melts perfectly and the beef stays juicy.

• For a quick fix, use the microwave. Place the hamburger on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 30-45 seconds, checking to ensure the cheese is melted and the beef is warm. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the bread soggy.

• If you prefer a crispy texture, try reheating on the stovetop. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the burger in the skillet, cover with a lid, and heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side. This method revives the onions and gives the bread a delightful crunch.

• For an air fryer, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the hamburgers in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Heat for 3-5 minutes, which will crisp up the bread and warm the beef and cheese evenly.

• Mixing bowl: Use this to combine the ground beef, dry onion soup mix, and water thoroughly.

• Baking sheet: Spread the beef mixture evenly on this to ensure it cooks uniformly in the oven.

• Oven: Preheat and use this to bake the beef mixture at the specified temperature.

• Skillet: Cook the chopped onions until translucent and then finish cooking the beef squares on top of the onions.

• Knife: Cut the baked beef mixture into small squares that will fit the dinner rolls.

• Cutting board: Use this as a surface to cut the beef mixture into squares.

• Spatula: Helpful for transferring the beef squares from the baking sheet to the skillet and then onto the dinner rolls.

• Measuring cup: Measure out the water accurately to mix with the ground beef and onion soup mix.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop the onions and slice the cheese ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

Use parchment paper: Spread the ground beef mixture on parchment paper for easy transfer and cleanup.

Batch cook: Double the recipe and freeze extra beef squares for quick meals later.

Preheat the oven: Ensure the oven is at the right temperature before starting to save cooking time.

Assemble efficiently: Lay out all components like dinner rolls, pickles, and cheese for quick assembly.