Simple Man Beef Burger Recipe

Prepare patties

If using loose ground beef, divide into two 160 g portions and gently form into flat patties about 10 cm (4 in) wide and 1.5 cm (1/2 in) thick. Handle minimally to keep patties tender. Season both sides of each patty evenly with salt and black pepper.

Cook patties

Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until very hot (about 2–3 minutes). Add a thin film of neutral oil or a small knob of butter. Place patties in the pan without overcrowding. Cook for 3–4 minutes on the first side without moving to develop a crust. Flip and cook 3–4 minutes for medium doneness (adjust time ±1 minute for rarer or well-done). If adding cheddar, place a slice on each patty during the last 1 minute and cover the pan to melt.

Toast buns

While patties finish, halve brioche buns and spread a thin layer of butter or brush oil on cut sides. In a separate pan or on a griddle over medium heat, toast cut sides until golden brown, about 1–2 minutes. Set toasted buns aside.

Assemble burgers

Spread about 1½ tbsp of house sauce onto the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place 2 lettuce leaves on the sauce, then the cooked beef patty. Top with tomato slices, a few rings of red onion, and 3 pickle slices. Add optional add-ons if desired (bacon, fried egg, mac 'n' cheese scoop). Finish with another drizzle (about 1 tsp) of house sauce on the top bun, then close the burger and serve immediately with chosen side.

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, sweet pickle relish, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and taste; adjust salt, lemon, or paprika to preference. Refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to let flavors meld. Makes enough for two burgers with extra for serving.

In a medium bowl, combine shredded cabbage and grated carrot. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Pour dressing over cabbage mixture and toss to coat evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning. Let sit in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes before serving to soften the cabbage slightly.

Cheddar: add a slice to each patty during the final minute of cooking and cover to melt. Bacon: cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, drain on paper towels and place on burger. Fried egg: fry eggs sunny-side up in butter or oil until whites are set but yolks still runny; place atop the patty. Mac 'n' Cheese: reheat a small scoop and place on the burger as an indulgent topping.