Brunch Burger Recipe

Form patties

Divide the 1 lb ground beef into two equal portions (about 8 oz each). Gently form each portion into a loose patty about 3/4 inch thick and slightly wider than the buns. Avoid overworking the meat to keep patties tender.

Season both sides of each patty with 1/2 tsp Kosher salt and 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper. Lightly press a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to help them cook flat.

Brush a large skillet or cast-iron pan with 1 tbs vegetable oil and heat over medium-high until shimmering. Add the patties and cook without moving for 3-4 minutes until a brown crust forms.

Flip the patties, add 1 tbs Worcestershire sauce on the cooked side, then cook another 3-4 minutes for medium (adjust time ±1-2 minutes for desired doneness). When patties are nearly done (about 1 minute left), place two cheddar slices on each patty, cover the pan with a lid to melt the cheese, and remove from heat once melted.

Cook bacon

In a separate skillet over medium heat, add the 8 slices of thick-cut bacon. Cook until crispy, about 4-7 minutes, turning occasionally. Transfer bacon to a paper towel–lined plate to drain.

Fry eggs (sunny-side or over-easy)

Wipe the bacon skillet clean (or use a second small nonstick pan). Melt 2 tbs unsalted butter over medium-low heat. Crack 4 eggs into the pan (cook in batches if needed). For sunny-side: cook gently until whites are set and yolks still runny, about 3-4 minutes. For over-easy: cook whites until set, gently flip and cook 15-30 seconds more. Season eggs with a pinch of coarse salt and black pepper.

Prepare vegetables: slice the tomato about 1/4 inch thick, thinly slice half a red onion, and have 2 cups baby arugula or lettuce ready. Set aside.

Make sauce

In a small bowl combine 3 tbs mayonnaise, 1 tsp Dijon mustard and 1/2 tsp hot sauce (optional). Stir until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.

Toast buns

Butter the cut sides of the 2 brioche buns with 1 tbs butter. In a clean skillet over medium heat, toast the buttered sides until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat.

Spread about half of the sauce on the bottom bun and the remainder on the top bun.

Place a handful of arugula or lettuce on the bottom bun, then a tomato slice and a little thinly sliced red onion. Add the cheeseburger patty on top of the vegetables.

Top each patty with 2 slices of crispy bacon and one fried egg. Add pickles if using, then cover with the top bun.

Serve immediately while the egg yolk is runny and cheese is warm. Provide extra salt and pepper to taste.