222 Burger Recipe
American or cheddar cheese (add thick cut bacon) honey mayo
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Ingredients
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Burger Patties & Seasoning
Buns & Cheese
Honey Mayo & Toppings
Optional Add-on
Method
Burger Patties & Seasoning
Form Patties
Divide the ground beef into two equal portions (about 10 oz / 280 g each). Gently form into loose patties about 4.5 inches (11 cm) wide and about 3/4 inch (2 cm) thick. Avoid overworking the meat to keep patties tender. Make a slight shallow depression in the center of each patty with your thumb to help them cook flat.
Season
Season both sides of each patty evenly with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper just before cooking.
Cook Patties
Heat a heavy skillet or flat-top griddle over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and let it shimmer. Place patties on the hot surface and cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes to develop a good sear. Flip once and cook 2–3 minutes more for medium (adjust time ±1 minute for desired doneness). During the last 60–90 seconds of cooking, place one slice of cheese of choice on each patty (use American for a classic melty finish or cheddar for sharper flavor). If you want double cheese, place both slices stacked and allow them to melt. Remove patties to a warm plate and tent loosely with foil to rest.
Buns & Cheese
Honey Mayo & Toppings
Make Honey Mayo
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and salt until smooth and emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning or honey to preference. Set aside.
Prepare Toppings
Wash and dry the lettuce leaves. Slice tomato and red onion into even slices. Have pickle slices ready. If using bacon, cook it now (see Optional Add-on).
Assemble Burger
Spread about 1 tablespoon of honey mayo on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a lettuce leaf on the mayo, then a cooked cheeseburger patty. Add 2 tomato slices, 2–3 red onion rings, and 3 pickle slices on top of the patty. If using, add 2 slices of cooked thick-cut bacon. Spread a light smear of honey mayo on the top bun and crown the burger. Serve immediately.
Optional Add-on
Cook Bacon (Optional)
For thick-cut bacon, preheat a skillet over medium heat. Add bacon slices in a single layer and cook 4–6 minutes per side, or until crisp-to-preference. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. If you prefer, bake bacon at 400°F (200°C) on a sheet pan for 12–16 minutes, flipping once for even crispness.