Hamburger Recipe

Form patties

Place the ground beef in a bowl. Add salt, black pepper and Worcestershire sauce if using. Gently mix with your hands or a fork until just combined; avoid overworking. Divide the meat into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Form each portion into a patty about 3.5 inches (9 cm) in diameter and about 3/4 inch (2 cm) thick. 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 griddle over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil, swirling to coat. When the pan is hot (a drop of water should sizzle), place the patties in the pan leaving space between them. Cook for 3-4 minutes without moving to develop a crust. Flip the patties and cook another 3 minutes for medium (adjust time +/- 1-2 minutes for desired doneness). If adding cheese, place one slice on each patty about 1 minute before removing from the pan and cover briefly to melt.

Rest patties

Transfer cooked patties to a plate and let rest for 2-3 minutes while you prepare buns and assemble. This helps juices redistribute.

Prepare vegetables

While patties cook, wash lettuce leaves and pat dry. Slice the tomato into 1/4-inch (6 mm) rounds. Thinly slice the red onion into rings. Lay out pickle slices.

Toast buns

Spread softened butter evenly on the cut sides of the hamburger buns. Toast the buns cut-side down in a separate skillet over medium heat or on the same griddle for 1-2 minutes until golden and slightly crisp. Watch carefully to avoid burning.

Assemble burgers

Spread about 1 tablespoon mayonnaise on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Add a lettuce leaf, then place the rested beef patty with melted cheese on top. Add 1-2 tomato slices, a few red onion rings (to taste), and 2 pickle slices. Drizzle about 1 tablespoon ketchup and 1/2 tablespoon mustard on the top bun or directly on the patty. Place the top bun over the assembled burger.

Serve

Serve immediately while hot with your choice of sides (fries, chips, or a simple salad). Provide extra condiments on the side if desired.