When it comes to iconic fast food items, few are as memorable as the “Royale with Cheese.” Popularized by Quentin Tarantino’s cult classic “Pulp Fiction,” this burger is not just a quirky name but a delicious twist on the classic cheeseburger, famously known in France.
The Royale with Cheese is all about simplicity, quality ingredients, and that perfect balance of flavors. If you’ve ever wanted to recreate this legendary burger at home, you’re in for a treat.
In this recipe, we’ll break down every step to help you craft the perfect Royale with Cheese — juicy beef patties, melted cheese, crisp lettuce, tangy pickles, and that special sauce all nestled in a soft bun.
Whether you’re a film buff or just love a great burger, this guide will have you making the Royale with Cheese like a pro in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Royale with Cheese is a timeless classic that combines the best of fast food nostalgia with the satisfaction of homemade quality. This burger stands out because of its simplicity — no fancy toppings or gimmicks, just a perfectly cooked beef patty topped with melted cheese and classic fixings.
It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend cookout. Plus, making it at home means you can control the ingredients, ensuring freshness and flavor.
The recipe is straightforward and approachable for cooks of all skill levels, and the result is a burger that’s juicy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying.
Ready to impress your friends and family? Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 4 hamburger buns, preferably brioche or soft white buns
- 4 slices of American cheese (or your favorite melting cheese)
- 4 large dill pickle slices
- 4 leaves of iceberg lettuce, rinsed and dried
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter (for cooking)
Equipment
- Large skillet or cast iron pan
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Plate lined with paper towels (optional, for resting patties)
Instructions
- Prepare the beef patties: In a mixing bowl, gently combine the ground beef with a pinch of salt and pepper. Avoid overworking the meat to keep the patties tender. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a round patty about ¾ inch thick. Make a shallow indentation in the center of each patty to prevent puffing during cooking.
- Heat your skillet: Place your skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil or butter. Allow it to get hot but not smoking.
- Cook the patties: Place the patties in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on the first side. Flip them gently and immediately place a slice of cheese on each patty. Cook for another 3-4 minutes or until the cheese has melted and the burger is cooked to your preferred doneness.
- Toast the buns: While the patties are cooking, slice the hamburger buns and toast them lightly in a separate pan or the oven until golden brown. This adds texture and prevents sogginess.
- Mix the sauce: In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise. Stir until smooth and set aside.
- Assemble the burgers: Spread a generous amount of the sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Add the cooked patty with melted cheese, then top with a leaf of iceberg lettuce, a slice of dill pickle, and some finely chopped onion if using. Finish with the top half of the bun.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy your Royale with Cheese hot and fresh. Pair with your favorite fries or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
Tips & Variations
“The secret to a juicy burger is not to overwork the meat and to cook it on a hot pan for a nice sear.”
- Cheese options: While American cheese melts beautifully, you can experiment with cheddar, Swiss, or even pepper jack for a flavor twist.
- Make it spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture or include sliced jalapeños for a kick.
- Vegetarian variation: Try a plant-based burger patty or a grilled portobello mushroom cap with vegan cheese for a meatless Royale with Cheese.
- Onion options: If raw onion is too pungent, caramelize the onions for a sweeter, more mellow flavor.
- Bun alternatives: For a low-carb option, swap the bun for lettuce wraps or a gluten-free bun.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 470 kcal |
| Protein | 28g |
| Fat | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 700mg |
Serving Suggestions
The Royale with Cheese pairs wonderfully with classic fast food sides. Consider serving with crispy French fries, onion rings, or a simple green salad to balance the richness.
For a lighter option, a fresh side like the Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas will add a refreshing crunch.
For drink pairings, a cold soda, iced tea, or even a craft beer complements the savory flavors perfectly. If you want to explore more hearty, satisfying meals, check out the Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide for a flavorful rice dish or the Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food for a warming soup option.
Conclusion
Recreating the Royale with Cheese at home is a fun and rewarding experience that brings a slice of movie history into your kitchen. This recipe captures the essence of a classic cheeseburger with straightforward ingredients and simple techniques, ensuring a juicy, cheesy, and flavorful result every time.
Whether it’s for a casual weeknight meal or an impressive cookout with friends, the Royale with Cheese delivers on all fronts.
With this guide, you’ll gain the confidence to customize your burger to your liking, from the cheese to the sauce and toppings. Don’t forget to explore other delicious recipes like the Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals for more culinary inspiration.
Now, fire up your skillet and get ready to enjoy a burger that’s truly worthy of its royal name!
📖 Recipe Card: Royale with Cheese
Description: A classic cheeseburger with a French twist, featuring a juicy beef patty, melted cheese, and fresh toppings on a soft bun. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT20M
Servings: 1 serving
Ingredients
- 1 sesame seed hamburger bun
- 1/4 lb ground beef patty
- 1 slice American cheese
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 2 slices dill pickles
- 2 slices tomato
- 1 leaf iceberg lettuce
- 1 slice red onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season beef patty with salt and pepper.
- Cook beef patty in a skillet over medium heat for 4 minutes each side.
- Place cheese slice on patty and cook until melted.
- Toast the hamburger bun lightly.
- Spread mayonnaise and mustard on the bun halves.
- Assemble burger with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and beef patty.
- Close the bun and serve immediately.
Nutrition: Calories: 550 kcal | Protein: 30 g | Fat: 35 g | Carbs: 35 g
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