FROM THE FOUNDING TABLE TO YOUR KITCHEN
POTUSPLATETHE PRESIDENTIAL TABLEHISTORY IS SERVED.
Presidents/Ronald Reagan

AT THE TABLE WITH RONALD REAGAN

The make-it-yourself cheeseburger

Do not press the patties while they cook: keep those juices in the burger.

Dinner25 minServes 4
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The make-it-yourself cheeseburger — a little vintage colour
A little vintage colour · Serving illustration

THE STORY ON YOUR PLATE

Macaroni, burgers, brownies: the list is real

More about Ronald Reagan →

The fortieth president came to politics after a film and broadcasting career.

Family or White House tradition

Grilled hamburgers appear on the Reagan Library’s list of favourite foods. A homemade patty and your own toppings translate the preference into a quick dinner.

The president & the table

The Reagan Library’s favourite-food list includes macaroni and cheese, grilled hamburgers and brownies. That gives this menu unusually direct support for all three choices. The familiar jelly beans are only one small part of a broader appetite for American home food.

Behind this story

Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, “Facts about Ronald Reagan,” favourite foods and desserts.

APRON ON. HISTORY CAN WAIT.

Make it at home.

Our home adaptation · Serves 4 · Not yet kitchen-tested

What you’ll need

Let’s make it

  1. Shape beef gently into 4 patties, slightly wider than the buns. Make a shallow dent in each centre. Season the outsides.

  2. Heat a lightly oiled skillet or grill to medium-high. Cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, until the centre reaches 71°C / 160°F.

  3. Add cheese during the final minute. Toast the buns briefly.

  4. Build with lettuce, tomato, burger, pickles and sauces. Serve immediately.

About this home version

A modern home recipe with practical ingredients and measured quantities.

Metric and US measures are approximate equivalents. For baking, use weights when you can.

STAY FOR ANOTHER COURSE

More from this table.