Tenderfoot Burger Recipe

Mix and Form

Place the ground chuck in a bowl. Add 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce. Gently but thoroughly combine using your hands or a spatula—do not overwork the meat. Divide into four equal portions and form into patties 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.

Rest

Set the patties on a plate, cover loosely with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to help them hold together and firm up (optional but recommended).

Cook

Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Brush with 1 teaspoon oil if using a pan. When hot, place patties on the surface. Cook for 3–4 minutes without moving to develop a crust. Flip once and cook another 2–3 minutes for medium (adjust time for desired doneness). In the final 60–90 seconds of cooking, place a slice of cheddar on each patty and cover the pan or close the grill to melt the cheese.

Prepare Vegetables

While patties rest or cook, slice the tomato into 1/4-inch rounds and thinly slice the red onion. Wash and dry lettuce leaves. Lightly toast the buns: butter the cut sides with the softened butter and place them cut-side down in a skillet over medium heat until golden (about 1–2 minutes).

Assemble

On the bottom bun spread about 1 tablespoon of the special sauce (see next section). Add lettuce, a cheese-topped patty, tomato slice, red onion rings, and two pickle slices. Top with the remaining sauce on the top bun and place it over the assembled burger. Repeat for remaining burgers.

Make the Sauce

In a small bowl combine 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon ketchup, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish, 1/2 teaspoon apple cider vinegar, 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1/8 teaspoon salt. Whisk until smooth and taste; adjust seasoning to preference. Chill until ready to use.

If desired, serve the burgers with fries or a simple side salad. For extra shine, brush the top bun lightly with a little melted butter before serving.