California Burger Recipe

Form patties

Place the ground beef in a bowl. Sprinkle the kosher salt, black pepper and Worcestershire sauce (if using) over the meat. Gently mix with your hands until just combined; do not overwork. Divide into 4 equal portions and shape each into a patty about 3/4 inch thick and slightly wider than the buns. Make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent puffing during cooking.

Cook patties

Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil and swirl to coat. When the oil is shimmering (about 1 minute), add the patties, leaving space between them. Cook without moving for 3-4 minutes until a brown crust forms. Flip and cook 3-4 minutes more for medium doneness. If using cheese, place a slice on each patty during the last 1 minute of cooking and cover the pan briefly to melt the cheese. Remove patties to a plate and let rest 2 minutes.

Prepare vegetables

While the patties cook, slice the tomato into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Peel and slice the red onion into thin rings. Rinse and pat dry the lettuce leaves. Taste a small piece of onion and remove the very center if it's too pungent.

Toast buns

Spread the softened butter evenly on the cut sides of the buns. In a separate skillet or the same pan pushed to the side, place buns cut-side down over medium heat and toast until golden, about 1-2 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.

Assemble burgers

Spread about 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise on the top bun and a light smear on the bottom bun. On each bottom bun place 1 lettuce leaf, then a cooked patty (with cheese if used). Top the patty with 1-2 tomato slices and a few onion rings. Cap with the top bun. Serve immediately.