Kid's Baba-burger Recipe

Form patties

Divide the ground beef into a single 4 oz portion. Gently shape into a patty about 3.5–4 inches in diameter and roughly 1/2 inch thick, creating a slight depression in the center with your thumb to help it cook flat.

Season

Lightly season both sides of the patty with the measured salt and black pepper, tapping off any excess.

Cook patty

Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until hot. Add the vegetable oil and swirl to coat. Place the patty in the skillet and cook undisturbed for 2.5–3 minutes until a brown crust forms. Flip and cook 2–2.5 minutes more for a medium doneness appropriate for a kid's burger (adjust time if you prefer more well done).

Toast bun

While the patty finishes, split the bun and toast cut sides face down in the same skillet for 20–30 seconds until lightly golden. Remove to a plate.

Melt cheese

When the patty has about 30 seconds remaining, place the American cheese slice on top. Cover the skillet with a lid or a piece of foil for 20–30 seconds to help the cheese melt evenly.

Assemble

Place the bottom bun on a plate, set the cheesed patty on the bun, then top with the bun crown. If the customer wants condiments (ketchup, mustard, pickles), serve them on the side or add to the sandwich as requested. The default presentation is plain with melted cheese.

If adding condiments, spread ketchup and/or mustard thinly on the top or bottom bun and place pickle slices on the cheesed patty before closing the sandwich. Serve any extra condiments on the side for dipping.