Hamburger Recipe

Form patties

Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Gently form each portion into a round patty about 3.5–4 inches in diameter and roughly 3/4-inch thick. Avoid overworking the meat to keep patties tender. Make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to help them cook evenly.

Season both sides of each patty with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. If using, lightly mix 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce into the meat before forming patties or brush on the outside after forming.

Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until very hot, about 3–4 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and swirl to coat. Add patties (do not overcrowd — cook in batches if needed).

Cook patties for 3–4 minutes on the first side without moving them, until a brown crust forms. Flip and cook 2–3 minutes for medium-rare to medium, or 3–4 minutes more for medium-well, depending on thickness. In the last 30–60 seconds of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty, cover the pan with a lid to melt the cheese.

While the patties cook, split the hamburger buns and spread softened butter on the cut sides. Toast the buns buttered-side down in a separate skillet over medium heat or in the pan after removing patties until golden brown, about 1–2 minutes.

If toasting in the same pan, wipe out excess fat but leave some residue for flavor. Toast cut sides until golden; do not burn.

In a small bowl, whisk together 4 tbs mayonnaise, 2 tbs ketchup, 1 tsp yellow mustard, 1 tsp sweet pickle relish (if using), and a pinch of black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning. Keep refrigerated until assembly.

Prepare toppings: wash and dry lettuce leaves, slice tomato into 1/4-inch rounds, separate onion into thin rings, and have pickle slices ready.

To assemble: spread a generous tablespoon of sauce on the bottom bun. Place a lettuce leaf, then the cheese-topped beef patty, add a tomato slice, a couple of onion rings, and 2 pickle slices. Spread more sauce on the top bun if desired and place it on top. Serve immediately.

Serve with fries or your preferred side.