Steak and Shake Garlic Double Steakburger

Steak and Shake garlic double steakburger recreates the iconic restaurant favorite at home with perfectly seasoned beef patties and garlic butter-infused buns that elevate this burger beyond ordinary backyard fare. The thin, smashed patties develop delicious caramelization while remaining juicy inside, creating the ideal texture contrast with the crisp, buttery buns. This brilliant one-pan wonder transforms simple ingredients into something truly crave-worthy.

I first attempted this recipe after a particularly memorable visit to Steak and Shake left me wondering if I could recreate their distinctive burger at home. My first try was good but missing something essential—until I realized their secret wasn't just in the beef but in how they incorporate garlic butter throughout the cooking process. Once I began brushing the buns and the patties with fragrant garlic butter, the flavor transformed completely. My teenage son, who considers himself a burger connoisseur, declared them 'even better than the restaurant,' which might be the highest culinary compliment he's ever given me.

Perfect Ingredients

• Ground Chuck: Creates the ideal balance of flavor and juiciness. The 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio ensures patties remain moist while developing perfect caramelization.
• Garlic Butter: Provides the signature aromatic flavor that defines this burger. Fresh minced garlic infused in butter delivers more complex flavor than garlic powder alternatives.
• American Cheese: Delivers that classic meltability essential to authentic burger experience. Its mild flavor complements rather than competes with the seasoned beef and garlic notes.
• Hamburger Buns: Form the perfect vehicle for holding everything together. Soft buns with some substance work best for absorbing garlic butter while maintaining structural integrity.
• Burger Seasoning: Enhances the beef's natural flavor without overwhelming it. The combination of salt, pepper, onion salt, and garlic salt creates depth beyond simple salting.
• Patty Size: Smaller, thinner patties develop more flavorful surface area than single thick patties. Two thin patties provide more caramelization while maintaining juiciness.

Burger Brilliance

Perfect Preparation:

Begin by bringing ground beef to cool room temperature for about 15 minutes, which promotes even cooking. Divide the meat into 8 equal portions, rolling each into a ball without overworking the meat. Excessive handling activates proteins that can make patties tough, so maintain a light touch throughout the process.

Garlic Butter Magic:

Melt butter slowly in a small saucepan, then add minced garlic and heat gently for 3-5 minutes until fragrant but not browned. This infusion process allows the garlic flavor to permeate the butter completely without developing bitter notes from overcooked garlic.

Bun Preparation:

Brush hamburger buns generously with garlic butter, ensuring even coverage across the cut surfaces. Toast in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown with crisp edges while maintaining a soft center. This creates textural contrast against the juicy patties while adding aromatic garlic flavor.

Patty Perfection:

Brush a heavy skillet or flat-top griddle to medium-high until very hot. Place seasoned beef balls on the cooking surface and immediately smash them thin with a spatula or burger press. Cook undisturbed for 2 minutes until a deep brown crust forms on the bottom, then flip in one decisive motion. Add cheese immediately after flipping so it has time to melt properly while the second side cooks for another 1-2 minutes.

Strategic Assembly:

Stack two cheesy patties together while still hot, allowing them to bond slightly before transferring to the toasted buns. This stacking technique ensures proper cheese melt throughout the burger while creating the signature double-patty structure.

Final Construction:

Place the stacked patties on the bottom bun and add desired toppings. For authentic Steak and Shake style, keep toppings simple—perhaps lettuce, tomato, and thinly sliced onion—to let the garlic butter and beef flavors shine through.

You Must Know:

Smashing patties works best on a very hot surface for maximum caramelization

The buns should be toasted just before serving for optimal texture

Resting the assembled burger for 1-2 minutes allows flavors to meld perfectly

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My grandfather always emphasized that great burgers depend more on technique than fancy ingredients. When I first attempted these burgers, I overthought the process, adding complicated seasonings and toppings that overwhelmed the essential flavors. Following his wisdom to 'let the beef and butter speak for themselves,' I simplified my approach to focus on proper cooking technique and quality basics. The improvement was remarkable—proving once again that sometimes the simplest approach delivers the most authentic results.

Serving Suggestions

This iconic burger pairs beautifully with classic sides that complement its rich, savory profile. Serve alongside thin-cut french fries for traditional diner style, or elevate with hand-cut fries tossed in garlic butter and parsley for theme consistency. A simple side salad with tangy vinaigrette provides refreshing contrast to the richness. For authentic Steak and Shake experience, accompany with a hand-spun milkshake in vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry.

Creative Variations

Transform this adaptable recipe by experimenting with different flavor profiles while maintaining the core technique. Create a Southwestern version by adding pepper jack cheese, sliced avocado, and chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. For mushroom lovers, sauté sliced cremini or button mushrooms after cooking the garlic butter before adding to the patties. Herb enthusiasts can incorporate fresh thyme, rosemary, or tarragon for aromatic complexity. For a lighter option, substitute half the cream cheese with additional vegetables like sautéed spinach or grilled zucchini.

Storage Strategy

Maintain optimal flavor and texture by following proper storage techniques. Store uncooked patties separated by parchment paper and wrapped tightly in plastic for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to restore moisture, warming gently over medium-low heat while covered. For individual portions, reheat in the microwave at 50% power in short intervals, stirring between each until heated through. While technically freezable for up to one month, the cheese sauce may separate slightly upon thawing—restore by whisking gently while reheating.

This Steak and Shake garlic double steakburger exemplifies how thoughtful ingredient combinations and proper technique can create exceptional results without complicated methods or equipment. The balanced sweet-heat profile alongside the practical one-pan approach makes this recipe not just about flavor but also about accessibility—proving that impressive meals don't require elaborate preparation or extensive cleanup. Whether serving it for a family dinner or presenting it to guests, this recipe delivers the kind of satisfying experience that creates both memories and recipe requests.

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