Cheeseburger Recipe

Form patties

Divide the ground beef into two equal portions (about 8 oz each). Gently shape each portion into a patty about 3/4 inch thick and slightly wider than the buns. Avoid overworking the meat — press just enough to form a cohesive patty. Make a shallow 1/2 inch dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to reduce puckering during cooking.

Season both sides of each patty evenly with kosher salt and black pepper. If using Worcestershire sauce, sprinkle it inside the meat as you shape the patties or brush lightly on the exterior before cooking.

Split the buns and butter the cut sides lightly with the unsalted butter.

Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the buttered buns cut-side down and toast until golden, about 1 to 2 minutes. Remove and keep warm.

Have the cheese slices ready on a small plate so they can be added to the patties in the last minute of cooking.

Add the neutral oil to the hot skillet (or brush on a hot grill) and swirl to coat. Place the patties in the skillet leaving space between them. Cook without moving for 3 to 4 minutes to develop a brown crust.

Flip the patties and continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes for medium doneness (internal temperature about 140–145°F / 60–63°C). Adjust time for desired doneness: less for rare, more for well-done.

During the last 45–60 seconds of cooking, place one slice of your chosen cheese on each patty. Cover the pan with a lid or aluminum foil for 30–60 seconds to help the cheese melt evenly.

Remove the patties to a plate and let rest 2 minutes. While resting, spread mayonnaise on the bottom bun, then a thin line of ketchup and mustard if desired.

Assemble the burger: bottom bun with mayo, add lettuce leaf, place cheeseburger patty, add tomato slices, red onion rings, pickle slices, then top bun. Serve immediately.

While patties cook, thinly slice 1/4 red onion into rings and slice the tomato into 2 even slices. Rinse and pat dry lettuce leaves. Prepare pickles and condiments on a small tray for quick assembly.