I’ve always had a soft spot for the iconic Jack in the Box Ultimate Cheeseburger. Its perfect melange of juicy beef, melting cheeses, and classic condiments sandwiched between soft, sesame-seed buns is the stuff of cravings. And who hasn’t found themselves dreaming of sinking their teeth into one of these heavenly burgers at one point or another?
Table of Contents
How to make Jack in the Box Ultimate Cheeseburger
The Jack in the Box Ultimate Cheeseburger is a popular menu item known for its simplicity and cheesiness. It’s a straightforward, no-lettuce, no-tomato burger that focuses purely on meat, cheese, and sauce. It’s a go-to for anyone who loves a rich, cheesy burger experience.
Ingredients:
To recreate the Jack in the Box Ultimate Cheeseburger at home, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Beef Patties:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for optimal juiciness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheeses:
- 4 slices of American cheese
- 2 slices of Swiss cheese
Buns:
- 2 sesame seed buns
Condiments:
- Mayonnaise
- Ketchup
- Mustard
Instructions:
Prepare the Beef Patties:
- Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and form them into patties slightly larger than the buns, as the buns will shrink when cooked.
- Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Cook the Patties:
- Preheat a grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side for a medium finish. Adjust the time based on your preferred doneness.
- When the patties are about a minute away from being done, place one slice of Swiss cheese on two patties and two slices of American cheese on the other two patties, allowing them to melt.
Toast the Buns:
- Lightly butter the inside of the sesame seed buns and toast them on the grill or skillet until golden brown. This adds flavor and prevents the buns from getting soggy.
Assemble the Ultimate Cheeseburger:
- Spread mayonnaise on the top and bottom bun.
- Add ketchup and mustard to the bottom bun.
- Place one beef patty with American cheese on the bottom bun.
- Stack the second beef patty with Swiss cheese on top of the first patty.
- Cap with the top bun.
Serve Immediately:
- Serve the burger hot off the grill. Optionally, you can wrap it in aluminum foil for a minute to allow the flavors to meld together, similar to the fast-food experience.
Tips:
- Use Quality Ingredients: Select high-quality cheese and condiments to ensure the best flavor.
- Grinding Fresh Beef: If possible, grind your beef or ask the butcher for a fresh grind to ensure the beef is flavorful and tender.
- Don’t Overwork the Meat: To keep the ground beef tender and juicy, handle it gently when forming patties.
- Maintain Juiciness: Avoid pressing down on the patties while cooking as this can squeeze out the juices.
- Customize to Your Taste: You can adjust the type and quantity of cheese and condiments based on your personal preference.
- Replicating the Exact Flavor: If you’re aiming for a more authentic Jack in the Box flavor, you might want to try sourcing similar cheeses and condiments as those used by the restaurant.
What to serve with
Pairing the right side dishes with the Jack in the Box Ultimate Cheeseburger can elevate your dining experience, making it a meal and a feast for the senses. When it comes to complementing the rich, savory flavors of this iconic burger, consider a balance of textures and flavors that enhance without overpowering.
1. Crispy French Fries: Nothing pairs with a cheeseburger quite like the classic French fry. Opt for thin, crispy fries seasoned with just the right amount of salt. For an extra layer of flavor, consider seasoning with garlic powder and paprika or serving with an aioli dipping sauce.
2. Onion Rings: For those who favor a crunch with their munch, beer-battered onion rings make a perfect companion. The sweetness of the onion encased in a crispy, savory batter offers a delightful contrast to the meaty, cheesy burger.
3. Coleslaw: A light, tangy coleslaw can provide a refreshing counterpoint to the rich cheeseburger. Opt for a coleslaw that’s not too creamy, with a hint of vinegar and sweetness. It’s not only a palate cleanser but also adds a crunch that complements the softness of the burger bun.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: For a slightly healthier but equally tasty option, sweet potato fries are a fantastic choice. Their natural sweetness and rich, tender texture offer a nice contrast to the savory burger. To enhance their flavor, serve with a side of chipotle mayo or a cinnamon-spiced dip.
5. Dill Pickle Spears: Never underestimate the power of pickles. A few dill pickle spears on the side can add a refreshing, vinegary bite that cuts through the richness of the cheese and beef, revitalizing your taste buds with each bite.
6. Loaded Potato Skins: If you’re looking to go all out, loaded potato skins stuffed with cheese, chives, and bacon bits can be a decadent side that matches the indulgence of the Ultimate Cheeseburger. Serve with sour cream for an extra layer of flavor.
7. Garden Salad: For a lighter, greener option, a crisp garden salad dressed with a vinaigrette can offer a refreshing and healthy side. The acidity and crunch of the salad provide a perfect balance to the fatty richness of the burger.
8. Milkshake: Although not a side, a creamy, thick milkshake acts as both a drink and dessert, offering a sweet counterbalance to the savory meal. Classic flavors like vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry complement the meal without competing with the flavors of the burger.
Ingredients Substitutes
Creating a homemade version of the Jack in the Box Ultimate Cheeseburger allows you to personalize it to your taste preferences and dietary needs. This iconic burger is known for its two beef patties, American cheese, Swiss-style cheese, Mayo-Onion sauce, mustard, and ketchup on a sesame seed bun.
Beef Patties
- For Lower Fat, substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef. Look for lean options that reduce fat content without sacrificing flavor.
- For Vegetarian: Use a meat substitute like Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger patties. These plant-based options mimic the texture and flavor of beef remarkably well.
- For a Unique Twist, Try ground lamb or bison for a different taste profile. Both offer rich flavors that can elevate the burger to a new level.
American Cheese
- For Healthier Options: Opt for low-fat or fat-free American cheese slices to reduce calorie intake without losing the melty texture.
- For Flavor Variation, Experiment with different cheeses, such as sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or Havarti. Each cheese offers a unique melting property and flavor that can enhance the burger.
- For Dairy-Free: Vegan cheese slices, such as those made from almond, soy, or coconut, provide a dairy-free alternative that still offers the gooey cheese experience.
Swiss-Style Cheese
- For a Smoother Melt: Gruyere cheese is an excellent substitute with a great melt and a slightly nutty flavor. Emmental is another Swiss cheese that brings a similar taste and texture.
- For Dairy-Free: Similar to American cheese substitutions, look for vegan Swiss cheese options at health food stores to accommodate lactose intolerance or dairy-free diets.
Mayo-Onion Sauce
- For Healthier Options: Combine low-fat or fat-free mayonnaise with finely diced onions, or use Greek yogurt as a base to reduce calories.
- For Allergies: If you’re avoiding eggs, look for vegan mayonnaise alternatives that use aquafaba or soy protein as a base.
Mustard and Ketchup
- For Organic Eating: Opt for organic mustard and ketchup to avoid additives and high fructose corn syrup found in some conventional brands.
- For Added Flavors: Experiment with specialty mustards, like Dijon or whole grain, and homemade ketchup recipes to personalize your burger’s taste.
Sesame Seed Bun
- For Gluten-Free: Look for gluten-free hamburger buns made from rice, almond, or coconut flour. Ensure they are sturdy enough to hold the burger’s components.
- For Lower Carbs: You can use large lettuce leaves as a wrap instead of a traditional bun, dramatically lowering the burger’s carbohydrate content.
Final Thoughts
When serving sides with the Jack in the Box Ultimate Cheeseburger, consider the balance of flavors and textures to ensure a delightful meal that satisfies all your cravings.
More Burger Recipes:
- Homemade Burger King Donut Burger Recipe
- Ghost Pepper Burger Recipe
- Homemade Burger King Bacon Melt Recipe
- Copycat Burger King Melts Recipe
Ingredients
Beef Patties:
- 1 lb ground beef
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheeses:
- 4 slices of American cheese
- 2 slices of Swiss cheese
Buns:
- 2 sesame seed buns
Condiments:
- Mayonnaise
- Ketchup
- Mustard
Instructions
Prepare the Beef Patties:
- Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and form them into patties slightly larger than the buns, as the buns will shrink when cooked.
- Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Cook the Patties:
- Preheat a grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side for a medium finish. Adjust the time based on your preferred doneness.
- When the patties are about a minute away from being done, place one slice of Swiss cheese on two patties and two slices of American cheese on the other two patties, allowing them to melt.
Toast the Buns:
- Lightly butter the inside of the sesame seed buns and toast them on the grill or skillet until golden brown. This adds flavor and prevents the buns from getting soggy.
Assemble the Ultimate Cheeseburger:
- Spread mayonnaise on the top and bottom bun.
- Add ketchup and mustard to the bottom bun.
- Place one beef patty with American cheese on the bottom bun.
- Stack the second beef patty with Swiss cheese on top of the first patty.
- Cap with the top bun.
Serve Immediately:
- Serve the burger hot off the grill. Optionally, you can wrap it in aluminum foil for a minute to allow the flavors to meld together, similar to the fast-food experience.
