Hamburger Recipe

Shape Patties

Place the ground beef in a mixing bowl. Gently fold in Worcestershire sauce if using, but handle the meat as little as possible to avoid compacting. Divide the meat into two equal portions (about 8 oz / 225 g each). Form each portion into a patty about 3/4-inch thick and 3 to 4 inches in diameter, creating a slight depression in the center with your thumb (this helps the patty cook evenly and prevents doming).

Season both sides of each patty with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper just before cooking. Salting too early can draw moisture out of the meat.

Preheat Grill or Pan

Preheat a cast-iron skillet or heavy pan over medium-high heat, or preheat grill to high (about 450–500°F / 230–260°C). When hot, brush or wipe the cooking surface with the neutral oil to prevent sticking.

Cook Patties

Place the patties on the hot pan or grill, depression-side up. Cook without moving for 3 to 4 minutes to develop a crust. Flip once and cook for another 3 minutes for medium (internal temperature about 140–145°F / 60–63°C). Adjust time ±1–2 minutes for desired doneness. In the last 30–60 seconds of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty and cover the pan or close the grill lid to melt the cheese.

Remove patties from the heat and let rest on a plate for 2–3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.

Prepare Vegetables

While the patties cook, slice the tomato into 1/4-inch thick rounds and thinly slice the red onion into rings. Rinse and pat dry the lettuce leaves.

Toast Buns

Split the buns and lightly butter or brush cut sides with a little oil if desired. Toast the cut sides in a skillet or on the grill for 30–60 seconds until lightly browned and crisp.

Assemble each bun bottom with a lettuce leaf, then place the rested, cheese-topped patty on top. Add tomato slice, a few onion rings, and pickles.

Spread about 1 tablespoon mayonnaise on the top bun, 1 tablespoon ketchup on the bottom bun (or spread both on one bun as preferred), and a light smear of mustard if desired.

Place the top bun over the assembled patty and press gently. Serve immediately with your choice of sides.