Double Burger (w/chili) Recipe

In a small bowl combine mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, vinegar, paprika and salt. Mix until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning. Refrigerate while you prepare the rest (keeps at least 1 week).

Heat pan

Heat a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 tbs oil if pan is dry.

Add 1/2 cup chopped onion and cook 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent.

Add 1 tsp minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add 1/2 lb ground beef for the chili. Break up with a spoon and brown until no longer pink, about 4–5 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Stir in 1 cup tomato sauce and 1/2 cup beef broth (or water). Add 1 tbs chili powder, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp brown sugar, 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered 8–10 minutes to thicken slightly, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust seasoning. Keep warm until assembly.

Divide 1 lb ground beef into two equal portions and gently form into two patties slightly larger than the buns. Do not overwork the meat; press a shallow dimple in the center of each patty to reduce puffing.

Season both sides of patties with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper.

Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add 1 tbs vegetable oil. When shimmering, add the patties. Cook 3–4 minutes without moving until a browned crust forms.

Flip patties and cook another 3–4 minutes for medium doneness. Place a slice of cheddar on each patty during the last minute, cover briefly to melt if desired.

Transfer patties to a plate and let rest 2 minutes while you toast buns.

Spread a thin layer of butter on cut sides of 2 buns. Toast butter-side down in the skillet over medium heat until golden, about 1–2 minutes.

On the bottom bun spread 1–2 tablespoons Thousand Island spread. Layer 1 lettuce leaf and a tomato slice.

Place one cheese-topped beef patty on the tomato. Spoon 3–4 tablespoons of the warm chili over the patty.

Add the second patty on top of the chili. If desired, add pickles.

Spread Thousand Island on the top bun and close the sandwich. Serve immediately with extra chili on the side if you like.