Super Star® With Cheese Recipe

Forming

Divide the 1 lb ground beef into two equal portions (~8 oz each). Gently form each portion into a loosely packed round patty about 4-4.5 inches in diameter and about 3/4 inch thick at the center. Do not overwork the meat — handle just until it holds together.

Seasoning

Season both sides of each patty with kosher salt (about 1/2 tsp per side) and freshly ground black pepper. Lightly brush or sprinkle 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce over each patty and pat it gently so it adheres.

Resting

Let the seasoned patties rest at room temperature for 10 minutes while you preheat the grill or skillet. Resting ensures even cooking.

Preheat

Preheat a gas or charcoal grill to medium-high (about 400–450°F / 200–230°C). Alternatively, heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy griddle over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates or skillet with 1 tsp neutral oil to prevent sticking.

Grill Patties

Place the patties on the hot grill or skillet. Cook, without pressing, for 3.5 to 4 minutes on the first side until a deep brown crust forms. Flip once and cook the second side for 3 to 3.5 minutes for medium doneness (internal temp ~145–150°F). Adjust time 30–60 seconds for rarer or more well-done preferences.

Melt Cheese

About 1 minute before the patties are done, place one slice of American cheese on each patty. Close the grill lid or cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid to melt the cheese evenly, about 45–60 seconds. Remove when cheese is fully melted and patties have reached desired temperature.

Toast Buns

While the cheese is melting, spread softened butter evenly on cut sides of the sesame buns. Place buns, buttered side down, on the grill or skillet for 30–60 seconds until golden and slightly crisp. Watch closely to avoid burning.

Sauce & Build

Spread about 1 tablespoon of secret burger sauce (or mayonnaise) on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place the cheeseburger patty on the sauced bottom bun. Top each patty with shredded iceberg lettuce (about 1/4 cup), a couple tomato slices (about 2-3 thin slices), 2 dill pickle chips, and a sprinkle of thinly sliced white onion (about 1 tablespoon). Add any additional sauce to the top bun if desired, then close the burger.

Serve

Serve the Super Star® with Cheese immediately while hot with your choice of side (fries, salad, etc.).

If using smoked paprika, mix it into the ground beef gently before forming patties for a subtle smoky note (use 1/4 tsp). For the 'secret burger sauce' combine 2 tbsp mayonnaise, 1 tsp ketchup, 1 tsp finely chopped dill pickle or relish, 1/4 tsp mustard, and a pinch of paprika — mix and chill until assembly.

Internal temperature guidance: 145°F for medium, 160°F for well-done. Use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the side of the patty to check temperature without compressing the meat.