Burgers Recipe

Prepare Meat

Place 1 lb ground chuck in a large bowl. Sprinkle 1 tsp kosher salt, 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper and 1 tbs Worcestershire sauce over the meat. Gently fold the seasonings into the meat 6–8 times — do not overwork or compact the meat to preserve tenderness.

Form Patties

Divide the meat into four equal portions (about 4 oz each). Gently shape each portion into a loose patty about 3/4 inch thick and roughly the diameter of the buns. Press a shallow dimple into the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent doming as they cook.

Rest

Place formed patties on a plate, cover loosely with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 15–20 minutes while you prepare toppings and heat your cooking surface.

Cook Patties

Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy griddle over medium-high heat until very hot. Add 1 tsp neutral oil and swirl to coat. Add patties to the hot surface, leaving space between them. Cook 3–4 minutes on the first side without moving to develop a crust. Flip once and cook another 2–3 minutes for medium doneness. In the last minute of cooking, place sliced cheddar on each patty and cover the pan for 30–60 seconds to melt.

Prepare Condiment Mix

In a small bowl combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tsp yellow mustard and 2 tbs ketchup. Stir until smooth and set aside. Taste and adjust proportions to preference.

Toast Buns

Butter the cut sides of 4 burger buns with the 2 tbs unsalted butter. After patties are nearly done, place buns cut-side down on the same skillet or on a separate pan over medium heat. Toast until golden and slightly crisp, about 1–2 minutes. Remove and keep warm.

Prep Toppings

While patties rest briefly after cooking, thinly slice 1 tomato and 1/4 cup red onion into rings. Wash and pat dry 4 leaves of iceberg lettuce. If using bacon, cook 8 slices in a skillet until crisp, drain on paper towels. If using avocado, slice just before serving to prevent browning.

Assemble Burgers

Spread a tablespoon (or to taste) of the prepared condiment on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a lettuce leaf on the condiments, add the cheese-topped patty, then 2 tomato slices, a few rings of red onion and 2 pickle slices. Add bacon (2 slices) or avocado slices if using. Spread a little mayonnaise on the top bun and close the burger.

Serve

Serve immediately while hot with your choice of sides (fries, salad, or chips). Provide extra condiments at the table.