New Hampshire

Red Arrow Diner Burger

A tribute to New Hampshire's iconic Red Arrow Diner, open 24/7 since 1922. This classic diner-style burger features a perfectly griddled patty, melted American cheese, crisp lettuce, ripe tomato, and all the timeless fixings. Simple perfection on a sesame seed bun.

⏱ Total 25min 🍴 Serves 4 ⭐ Diner Classic 🏦 Since 1922

Equipment Needed

🍳 Flat-Top Griddle
🍴 Sturdy Spatula
🥣 Mixing Bowl
🔪 Sharp Knife

Instructions

1

Prep your toppings: Wash and dry the lettuce. Slice the tomato and onion into even rounds. Have pickles, condiments, and cheese ready to go. Diner efficiency is key - everything should be at arm's reach.

2

Form the patties: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 6 oz each). Shape into patties slightly larger than your buns - they'll shrink while cooking. Press a shallow dimple in the center.

Tip: Diner burgers are typically thinner than gourmet burgers. Aim for about 1/2 inch thick for that classic flat-top texture.
3

Season simply: Season both sides of the patties with salt and pepper. That's it. Diner burgers are about the beef and the griddle, not fancy seasonings.

4

Heat the griddle: Heat a flat-top griddle or large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. A well-seasoned surface is essential for that classic diner crust. Add a thin layer of oil or butter.

5

Cook the patties: Place patties on the hot griddle. Cook for 3-4 minutes until a dark, crispy crust forms on the bottom. Flip once and cook another 3-4 minutes. Press gently with spatula for extra crust (diner-style!). Add cheese in the last minute.

Diner secret: Unlike fancy burger rules, diner cooks DO press the patties slightly. This creates that signature crispy crust.
6

Toast the buns: Butter the cut sides of the buns and toast them on the griddle until golden brown, about 1 minute. The butter and beef fat create amazing flavor.

7

Sauce the buns: Spread mayonnaise on the bottom bun, mustard and ketchup on the top. This is the classic diner configuration.

8

Assemble: On the bottom bun, layer lettuce, tomato, the cheese-topped patty, onion slices, and pickles. Cap with the top bun.

9

Serve diner style: Serve immediately with a side of crispy fries and a chocolate frappe (that's a milkshake in New Hampshire speak). Slide it across the counter with a "Here ya go, hon."

💡 Pro Tips & Variations

  • Visit the original: The Red Arrow Diner in Manchester, NH has been serving burgers 24/7 since 1922. Multiple presidential candidates have stopped by - it's a New Hampshire tradition.
  • The griddle is key: A well-seasoned flat-top gives that authentic diner flavor. Years of burgers create a patina that can't be replicated at home overnight.
  • American cheese only: For authentic diner style, stick with American cheese. It melts perfectly and has that nostalgic flavor profile.
  • Thin patties: Diner burgers are thinner than modern "gourmet" burgers. This creates more surface area for that delicious crust.
  • The smash technique: Some diners smash the patty right when it hits the griddle for maximum crust. Try it for a different texture.
  • 24/7 means 24/7: Like the real Red Arrow, this burger is appropriate at any hour. 3 AM burger cravings are valid.
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