Cheeseburger Recipe

Form patties

Divide the ground beef into two equal portions (about 8 oz each). Lightly handle the meat and form each portion into a loose ball, then flatten into a patty about 3½ to 4 inches in diameter and roughly ¾ inch thick. Make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to help them cook flat.

Season both sides of each patty with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. If using, sprinkle ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce evenly over each patty or mix it into the meat before forming for extra flavor.

Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until very hot, about 2–3 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon neutral oil and swirl to coat the pan.

Place patties in the hot pan, leaving space between them. Cook without moving for 3–4 minutes to develop a brown crust. Flip the patties and cook the second side 2–3 minutes for medium (adjust time +/- 1–2 minutes for rarer or more well-done).

During the last 60 seconds of cooking, place one slice of American cheese on each patty. Cover the pan with a lid or a large metal bowl to help the cheese melt, about 30–60 seconds.

Remove patties to a plate and tent loosely with foil to keep warm while you toast buns and arrange toppings.

Spread the softened butter evenly on the cut sides of the buns.

Return the skillet (wipe out excess fat if necessary) to medium heat. Place buns buttered-side down in the skillet and toast until golden brown and crisp, about 45–60 seconds. Remove from heat.

While patties cook, prepare toppings: pat lettuce leaves dry and keep whole; slice tomato into even slices; separate onion into thin rings; drain pickle slices.

Spread mayonnaise on the bottom bun, then place a lettuce leaf on top to act as a moisture barrier.

Set the cheese-topped patty on the lettuce. Add 2 tomato slices, a few onion rings, and 3–4 pickle slices.

Spread ketchup and mustard on the top bun (or apply to taste). Place the top bun over the assembled burger and press gently to compact.

Serve immediately while hot, with optional side of fries or a pickle spear.