Hamburger Recipe

Form the patties

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

Preheat and cook

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add 1 tsp vegetable oil and swirl to coat. When the pan is hot and just beginning to smoke, place the patties in the pan leaving space between them. Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until a brown crust forms. Flip and cook another 3 minutes for medium (adjust time for desired doneness). If adding cheese, place a slice on each patty during the last 1 minute of cooking and cover the pan to melt.

Rest

Remove patties to a plate and let rest for 2 minutes; this helps retain juices.

Toast the buns

While patties cook or after removing them, spread softened butter (or brush oil) on the cut sides of the hamburger buns. Place cut-side down in a clean skillet over medium heat or on the griddle for 1-2 minutes until golden and lightly crisp. Remove from heat.

Prepare condiments

In a small bowl combine mayonnaise, yellow mustard, and ketchup. Stir until evenly mixed. Taste and adjust quantities if desired.

Assemble burgers

Spread about 1 tablespoon of the prepared sauce onto the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a lettuce leaf on the sauce (optional: prevents bun sogginess). Put a rested beef patty (with cheese if used) on top. Add 1-2 tomato slices, a few onion rings, and 2 pickle slices. Spread a thin layer of sauce on the top bun if desired and close the burger. Serve immediately.

Prepare toppings while patties cook: core and slice the tomato into 1/4-inch thick slices; separate and dry lettuce leaves; thinly slice red onion into rings. Arrange pickle slices on a plate. Use as many or as few as each burger requires when assembling.