Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsBig Jud'sHamburger Recipe

Hamburger Recipe

Inspired by Big Jud's
Time30m
Serves4

Make Hamburger Recipe in just 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Beef patties

Method

Beef patties

  1. 1

    Prepare and season beef

    Place the ground beef in a bowl. Sprinkle kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce (if using) over the meat. Gently mix with your hands or a spoon just until combined — do not overwork, to keep patties tender.

  2. 2

    Form patties

    Divide the meat into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Lightly shape each portion into a patty about 3/4-inch thick and slightly wider than your buns. Make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to reduce puffing during cooking.

  3. 3

    Cook patties

    Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil to coat. When hot (oil shimmering), add patties leaving space between them. Cook without moving for 3–4 minutes until a brown crust forms. Flip and cook 2–3 minutes more for medium doneness. In the last minute, place a slice of cheddar on each patty, cover with a lid or tent with foil to melt cheese.

Buns & toppings

  1. 4

    Toast buns

    While patties cook, split the hamburger buns and spread softened butter on cut sides. Place buttered sides down in a separate skillet or on the griddle over medium heat and toast 1–2 minutes until golden. Remove and keep warm.

  2. 5

    Prepare fresh toppings

    Rinse and dry lettuce leaves. Slice tomato into 1/4" rounds and thinly slice red onion. Arrange pickles and set out ketchup and mustard.

  3. 6

    Assemble burgers

    On the bottom half of each toasted bun, spread 1 tsp ketchup and 1 tsp mustard (or to taste). Place a lettuce leaf, then a tomato slice, then the cheeseburger patty. Top with 2 pickle slices and a few onion rings. Crown with bun top. Serve immediately.

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