Name: Big Island Kona Mix Plates Cheeseburger Recipe
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (80/20); 1 tsp kosher salt; 0.5 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 0.5 tsp garlic powder; 0.5 tsp onion powder; 0.5 tbs Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp vegetable oil (or neutral oil) for cooking; 2 unit hamburger buns; 1 tbs butter (softened) for toasting buns; 2 slice American cheese slices; 2 slice cheddar cheese slices (optional alternative); 2 leaf iceberg lettuce leaves; 4 slice tomato, ripe, sliced; 4 slice red onion, thinly sliced; 6 slice dill pickle slices; 2 tbs ketchup; 1 tsp yellow mustard; 1 tbs mayonnaise

Method

Beef Patties

Mix and portion

Place the ground beef in a mixing bowl. Sprinkle the kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder evenly over the meat. Add the Worcestershire sauce. Using your hands, gently fold the seasonings into the beef 10–12 times — do not overwork or the patties will be tough. Divide into two equal portions (about 8 ounces each for 1 lb total).

Form patties

Shape each portion into a round patty about 3/4 inch thick and slightly wider than the bun. Make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to help them cook evenly and reduce puffing.

Preheat pan or grill

Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat (or preheat grill to medium-high, ~400°F / 200°C). Add 1 tsp vegetable oil to the pan and swirl to coat. The pan is ready when a drop of water sizzles and evaporates quickly.

Cook patties

Place the patties in the hot pan (or on the grill). Cook without moving for about 3–4 minutes for medium-rare to medium (adjust time for desired doneness): 3 min per side for medium-rare, 4 min per side for medium, 5 min per side for medium-well. Flip once using a spatula. If cooking on a grill, close the lid between flips to retain heat.

Add cheese

About 1 minute before the patties are done, place one slice of American or cheddar cheese on each patty. Cover the pan (or close grill lid) to melt the cheese for about 30–60 seconds until fully melted.

Rest patties

Remove the patties from the heat and transfer to a plate. Let rest 2–3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.

Buns & Assembly

Toast buns

While the patties rest, spread softened butter evenly on the cut side of each bun. Place buns cut-side down in a skillet over medium heat or on the grill for 1–2 minutes until golden and toasted. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Assemble cheeseburgers

On the bottom bun add mayonnaise and mustard if using. Place lettuce leaf, then the cheeseburger patty. Top with tomato slices, red onion, and pickle slices as desired. Squeeze or spread ketchup on the top bun, then close the burger. Serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the cheeseburgers hot with fries, chips, or a simple side salad. Offer extra condiments on the side.