Burg Recipe

Combine sauce

In a small bowl, stir together mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish, and hot sauce (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning. Cover and refrigerate while you prepare the rest.

Form patties

Place the ground beef in a mixing bowl. Add Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, and black pepper. Gently mix with your hands or a fork until just combined — do not overwork. Divide into two equal portions and form two patties about 3/4 inch thick and slightly wider than the buns. Make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to reduce puffing while cooking.

Preheat pan

Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil and let it shimmer.

Cook patties

Place patties in the hot skillet. Cook without moving for 3 minutes to develop a crust. Flip and cook another 2 to 3 minutes for medium (adjust time ±1 minute for desired doneness). In the last 30–60 seconds of cooking, place a slice of cheddar on each patty and cover the pan or tent with foil to melt the cheese.

While the patties cook, slice the tomato and thinly slice the red onion. Butter the cut sides of the buns. When patties are nearly done, place the buns butter-side down on a separate skillet or griddle over medium heat and toast until golden, about 1–2 minutes.

Tear or rinse the lettuce leaves and pat dry. Set aside pickles.

Spread a tablespoon of the prepared sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun (divide sauce between two buns). Place lettuce on the bottom bun, then the cheesy patty. Add tomato slice, red onion, and pickle slices. Spread a little sauce on the top bun if desired, then close the burger.

Serve immediately with fries or a side salad.