White Castle Hamburger Recipe

Ground beef: The base of our sliders, providing the essential meaty flavor and texture.

Dry onion soup mix: Adds a burst of savory onion flavor to the beef, mimicking the taste of White Castle's original recipe.

Water: Helps to mix the dry onion soup mix evenly into the ground beef.

Onions: Finely chopped to add a fresh, crunchy texture and enhance the overall flavor.

American cheese: Melts perfectly over the beef, adding a creamy and tangy element.

Slider buns: Smaller than regular hamburger buns, these are perfect for making mini burgers.

Pickles: Adds a tangy crunch that complements the savory beef and cheese.

To achieve a more authentic White Castle flavor, try using a griddle instead of baking the ground beef mixture. This method allows the onions to caramelize slightly and infuse the beef with a deeper, richer taste. Cook the mixture on medium heat until fully browned, then proceed with cutting and assembling the sliders.

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

• dry onion soup mix - Substitute with homemade onion seasoning mix: Combine dried minced onions, beef bouillon granules, onion powder, parsley flakes, celery seed, paprika, and black pepper for a similar flavor profile.

• water - Substitute with beef broth: Beef broth adds more depth of flavor compared to plain water.

• onions, finely chopped - Substitute with shallots, finely chopped: Shallots have a milder and sweeter taste, which can complement the other ingredients well.

• american cheese - Substitute with cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese provides a similar meltability and a slightly sharper flavor.

• slider buns - Substitute with Hawaiian rolls: Hawaiian rolls are slightly sweeter and softer, adding a unique twist to the sliders.

• pickles - Substitute with cucumber slices: Fresh cucumber slices can provide a similar crunch and freshness without the tanginess of pickles.

• Allow the hamburger patties to cool completely before storing or freezing. This helps maintain their texture and flavor.
• For short-term storage, place the hamburger patties in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To freeze, individually wrap each hamburger patty in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This prevents them from sticking together and makes it easier to thaw only what you need.
• Place the wrapped 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.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the hamburger patties in the refrigerator overnight. This ensures even thawing and maintains the best texture.
• Reheat the hamburger patties in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side.
• Assemble the hamburgers with fresh slider buns, cheese, onions, and pickles just before serving to ensure the best taste and texture.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap each hamburger in aluminum foil to keep them moist. Place them on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• For a quicker method, use the microwave. Place the hamburgers on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are evenly heated.

• If you prefer a crispy bun, use a skillet. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the hamburgers in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the cheese is melted and the buns are slightly crispy.

• For an air fryer, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the hamburgers in the basket in a single layer. Heat for 3-5 minutes until they are hot and the buns are toasty.

• If you have a steamer, you can reheat the hamburgers by placing them in a steaming basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for about 5 minutes until heated through. This method keeps the buns soft and the meat juicy.

• 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 for baking.

• Oven: Preheat and bake the beef mixture at 375°F (190°C).

• Knife: Cut the baked beef into 8 even squares.

• Spatula: Remove the beef squares from the baking sheet.

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

• Measuring cup: Measure out the water and finely chopped onions.

• Spoon: Mix the ingredients in the mixing bowl.

• Serving plate: Arrange the sliders on this for serving.

• Oven mitts: Protect your hands when handling the hot baking sheet.

Prepare the beef mixture ahead: Mix the ground beef, dry onion soup mix, and water the night before and store it in the fridge.

Use pre-chopped onions: Save time by buying pre-chopped onions from the store.

Line the baking sheet: Use parchment paper to line the baking sheet for easy cleanup.

Pre-slice the cheese: Have the American cheese slices ready to go before you start cooking.

Assemble in batches: Lay out all the slider buns and toppings so you can quickly assemble the hamburgers.

Use a pizza cutter: Cut the beef squares with a pizza cutter for even and quick slicing.