Cheeseburger Recipe

Form patties

Divide the ground beef into two equal portions (about 8 oz each). Gently form each portion into a loosely packed patty about 3/4 inch thick and slightly wider than the bun. Do not overwork the meat or patties will be tough.

Season

Pat both sides of each patty dry with a paper towel. Sprinkle about 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper on each side. If using, brush or sprinkle the Worcestershire sauce inside the meat before forming or very lightly on top just before cooking.

Cook patties

Heat a heavy skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add 1 teaspoon vegetable oil to coat. When shimmering, add patties and cook undisturbed 3-4 minutes until a brown crust forms. Flip and cook 2-3 minutes more for medium (adjust time for desired doneness). During the final 1 minute of cooking, place one slice of cheddar on each patty, cover the pan with a lid or tent with foil to melt the cheese.

Toast buns

While the patties cook, spread about 1/2 tablespoon of butter on the cut faces of each bun. Place buttered sides down on a separate skillet over medium heat or on the griddle and toast until golden and crisp, about 1-2 minutes. Remove and keep warm.

Prepare tomato and lettuce

Slice the tomato into 1/4-inch thick rounds (about 3-4 slices). If leaves are large, tear to fit the bun. Pat dry to avoid sogginess.

Apply condiments

Spread 1 tablespoon mayonnaise on the top bun and the remaining 1 tablespoon on the bottom bun (or all on one side if you prefer).

Cook fries

If using frozen fries: preheat oven and cook according to package directions until crisp, or deep-fry in 350°F (175°C) oil until golden and cooked through, 3-5 minutes. If using fresh potatoes: heat 1 cup vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry potatoes in batches 3-4 minutes until golden and just tender. Remove to a paper towel-lined tray.

Season fries

Immediately toss hot fries with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or season to taste.

Place the bottom bun on a plate. Add lettuce leaf(s) first (this helps keep bun from getting soggy), then a tomato slice, then the hot cheeseburger patty (cheese side up). Top the patty with gherkin slices. Spread mayonnaise on the top bun (if not already applied) and place it on the burger. Serve immediately with hot fries on the side.

Optional: Add ketchup and mustard to the plate for dipping or spread on the burger as desired.