Traditional Hamburger Recipe

Prepare mixture

Lightly break the ground beef into a large bowl. Add the breadcrumbs, whole egg, Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp kosher salt, and 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper. Gently fold ingredients together with your hands or a spatula until just combined — do not overwork the meat to avoid tough patties (about 20–30 turns).

Form patties

Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). With lightly oiled hands, shape each portion into a round 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 help them cook flat and avoid doming.

Rest

Place formed patties on a plate, cover loosely with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to firm up. This helps them hold together during cooking.

Preheat skillet or grill

Heat a heavy skillet (cast iron preferred) or an outdoor grill to medium-high. If using a skillet, add 1 tablespoon neutral oil and let it shimmer but not smoke.

Cook patties

Place patties on the hot skillet or grill, leaving space between them. Cook for 3–4 minutes on the first side without pressing down. Flip once and cook an additional 3 minutes for medium doneness. If you prefer medium-well, cook 4 minutes per side. During the last 1 minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar on each patty and cover the skillet or close the grill lid to melt the cheese (about 30–60 seconds).

Finish and season

Transfer cooked patties to a plate and let rest 2–3 minutes. Taste and, if needed, sprinkle a small pinch of salt and pepper on the cheese-topped patties.

Toast buns

While patties are resting, heat a clean skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Spread softened butter on the cut sides of the 4 buns. Place buns cut-side down in the skillet or on the grill for about 1–2 minutes until golden and lightly crisp. Remove and set aside.

Prepare toppings

Slice the tomato into 4 even slices. Separate onion slices into rings. Rinse and pat dry lettuce leaves. Lay out 2 pickle slices per burger.

Assemble burgers

Spread mayonnaise on the bottom bun, then place a lettuce leaf on top. Add a cheese-topped patty, then 2 pickle slices, a tomato slice, and a few onion rings. Spread ketchup and mustard on the top bun and place it on the burger. Repeat for remaining burgers.

Serve

Serve burgers immediately with fries, chips, or a side salad. Provide extra condiments on the side if desired.