Kids Cheeseburger Recipe

Form and season patty

Divide ground beef into a single 4 oz (0.25 lb) portion. Lightly form into a loose ball — do not overwork. Season one side with about 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and a pinch (about 1/8 tsp) black pepper; reserve remaining salt for the finished patty if desired.

Preheat griddle/skillet

Heat a heavy skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until very hot, about 3–4 minutes. Add 1 teaspoon vegetable oil and 1 teaspoon softened butter; swirl to coat and let the butter melt and begin to foam.

Smash-cook the patty

Place the beef ball seasoned-side down on the hot surface. Immediately press the ball flat with a sturdy spatula or a burger press to make a thin 1/4–1/2 inch patty. Hold pressure for about 10–15 seconds to ensure good contact. Let cook undisturbed for 2–2.5 minutes, until edges brown and juices on top begin to show.

Flip and cheese

Flip the patty and season the cooked side with the remaining salt and the remaining pinch of black pepper. Immediately place one slice of American cheese on the hot patty, cover the pan with a lid or a small bowl for about 30–45 seconds to melt the cheese.

Toast bun and assemble

While cheese is melting, place the bun cut-sides down in the skillet next to the patty for about 20–30 seconds until lightly toasted. Remove bun and patty from the skillet. Spread about 1 tablespoon of Wolf Sauce on the bottom bun, place the cheesy patty on top, add optional lettuce/tomato/pickles if using, then top with the bun crown. Serve immediately warm.

In a small bowl combine 1 tablespoon mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon ketchup, 1 teaspoon yellow mustard, 1/2 teaspoon sweet pickle relish, 1/4 teaspoon apple cider vinegar, 1/8 teaspoon paprika and a pinch (1/8 tsp) salt. Stir until smooth and taste; adjust sweetness or acidity by adding a bit more ketchup or vinegar if desired. Use immediately or refrigerate up to 3 days.

If using, place thinly shredded iceberg lettuce (about 2 tablespoons) on the sauced bottom bun, add a tomato slice and 2 pickle slices on top of the cheesy patty before finishing the burger.