Restaurants›Ember & Bun›Classic Burger Recipe

Classic Burger Recipe

Inspired by Ember & Bun
Time30m
Serves2

Make Classic Burger Recipe in just 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Burger Patties

Buns & Cheese

Toppings & Condiments

Method

Burger Patties

1

Prepare and shape patties

Divide the ground beef into two equal portions (about 8 ounces each). Gently form each portion into a loose ball, then flatten into a patty about 3/4-inch thick and 4 inches in diameter. Make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to help them cook evenly and reduce puffing.

2

Season both sides of each patty with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. If using, sprinkle the Worcestershire sauce over the top of each patty or mix it gently into the meat before shaping (do not overwork the meat).

3

Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until very hot (about 3–4 minutes). Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and swirl to coat.

4

Place the patties in the hot pan, leaving space between them. Cook without moving for 3–4 minutes to develop a brown crust. Flip and cook the other side 3 minutes for medium-rare to medium, or 4 minutes for medium-well. During the last 30–60 seconds of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty and cover the pan with a lid to melt the cheese.

5

Transfer cooked patties to a plate and tent loosely with foil to rest for 3–5 minutes. This keeps them juicy and finishes carryover cooking.

Buns & Cheese

6

While the patties rest, spread about 1/2 tablespoon of softened butter on the cut side of each bun.

7

Wipe the skillet clean with a paper towel (careful, it will be hot). Place the skillet back on medium heat. Toast the buttered cut sides of the buns in the skillet until golden brown, about 1–2 minutes. Remove and keep warm.

Toppings & Assembly

8

Mix the condiments if desired: spread 1 tablespoon mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun, then add 1 teaspoon mustard and 1 tablespoon ketchup on top of the mayo (or arrange condiments separately for guests).

9

Place a leaf of lettuce on the sauced bottom bun, then the cheese-topped patty. Add 2 pickle slices, 2-3 thin tomato slices, and a few rings of red onion on top of the patty.

10

Cover with the top bun, press gently to set, and serve immediately.

11

Optional: serve with fries or potato chips and extra ketchup on the side.