New York Chop Cheese Burger on Arteflame

Introduction

The New York Chop Cheese Burger is a staple of NYC bodegas — juicy chopped beef seared with melted cheese and served on a toasted hero roll. Made even better on the Arteflame grill, this version locks in flavor with a gorgeous crust using the reverse sear method. With no lids or pans needed, this grilled masterpiece cooks evenly on the steel cooktop and delivers the kind of flavor that only comes from high-heat searing and premium ingredients. This is your new go-to for a juicy, flavor-packed NYC-style burger right from the backyard.

Ingredients

• 1 lb of 80/20 ground beef
• 4 slices American cheese
• 2 hero rolls or hoagie buns
• 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (plus extra for buns)
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lettuce and tomato slices (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the grill.
2. Stack dry firewood over the napkins. Light the paper and let the fire build.
3. Wait about 20 minutes until the center grill grate reaches around 1,000°F and the flat top griddle is hot.

Step 2: Sear the Ground Beef

1. Divide the ground beef into two loose piles on a tray.
2. Place each pile onto the center grill grate and sear for 1 minute on each side to build a beautiful crust and lock in juices.
3. Season with salt and pepper while searing.

Step 3: Move Beef to the Cooktop

1. Transfer the seared patties onto the flat griddle surrounding the center grate.
2. Use a spatula to chop the meat roughly as it cooks.
3. Add thinly sliced onions directly into the chopped beef and cook until softened, about 3–5 minutes.

Step 4: Melt the Cheese

1. Place two slices of American cheese onto each mound of chopped beef and onions.
2. Let the cheese melt into the meat, about 2 minutes. The flat top ensures even melting without burning.

Step 5: Toast the Buns

1. Butter the interior of the hero rolls and place them cut-side down on the outer edge of the flat top griddle to toast for 1–2 minutes.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

1. Mix mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard for a quick burger sauce.
2. Spread the sauce on both sides of the toasted rolls.
3. Place the cheesy chopped meat mixture on the buns and top with lettuce and tomato if using.
4. Serve hot and enjoy the quintessential New York Chop Cheese grilled to perfection!

Tips

• Always use 80/20 ground beef for best fat content and flavor.
• Remove meat from the grill when the internal temp is 15°F below your target — it continues cooking after removal.
• Cooking closer to the center of the Arteflame gives you more sear; move outward for gentle finishing heat.
• Butter brings a rich flavor to your grilled food—skip the oil.
• The solid steel of the cooktop ensures no flare-ups or burnt food—just sizzling perfection.

Variations

1. Spicy Jalapeño Chop Cheese: Add grilled jalapeños and pepper jack cheese to the beef for a spicy kick.
2. Mushroom Swiss Chop Cheese: Mix in sautéed mushrooms and top with Swiss cheese for an earthy twist.
3. BBQ Chop Cheese: Add grilled onions and your favorite BBQ sauce, topped with smoked cheddar.
4. Breakfast Chop Cheese: Add a grilled egg and crispy bacon with American cheese on a toasted brioche bun.
5. Italian Chop Cheese: Use provolone cheese and marinara sauce with sautéed peppers and onions for an Italian spin.

Best pairings

• Grilled sweet potato wedges cooked on the flat top
• Pickles and coleslaw for contrast and crunch
• Craft beer or a classic soda like root beer
• Grilled corn with butter and paprika
• New York-style cheesecake for dessert

Conclusion

The Chop Cheese Burger is all about bold flavor and crispy texture, and the Arteflame grill delivers both. This New York classic reimagined with premium grilling gives you a bodega favorite transformed into a backyard showstopper. With the right ingredients and searing technique, you’ll achieve that juicy, cheesy bite every time.