Five Guys Recipe

Form patties

Divide the ground beef into two equal portions (about 8 oz each). Gently form each portion into a loose ball without overworking the meat. Flatten each ball with your palm into a thin patty roughly 4–4½ inches in diameter, about 1/2" thick at the center (they will shrink and thin while cooking).

Season

Sprinkle each patty evenly with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper just before cooking. Do not press the patties while they cook.

Preheat and cook

Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron griddle over medium-high heat until very hot. Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and swirl to coat. Place the patties on the hot surface with a small gap between them. Cook for 2–3 minutes without moving, until the underside is deeply browned.

Flip and finish: Flip each patty and cook for another 1½–2 minutes for medium (adjust time for desired doneness). If using cheese, lay one slice of American cheese on each patty after flipping and allow it to melt while the second side finishes cooking. Remove patties to a warm plate and tent lightly with foil to rest for 1–2 minutes.

Toast buns

While the patties cook, split the hamburger buns. Spread about 1 teaspoon softened butter on each cut face. Place buns buttered-side down on the hot skillet or a separate pan over medium heat and toast until golden brown, about 1–2 minutes. Remove and keep warm.

Build the burger

Place one cheesy patty on the bottom bun. Layer toppings in this order (to replicate the classic Five Guys style): dill pickle slices, thinly sliced white onion, tomato slices, shredded iceberg lettuce. Spread ketchup and yellow mustard on the top bun (or on the bottom bun if you prefer). Close the burger and press gently to compact the layers.

Prep toppings: Rinse and dry lettuce, shred finely. Slice tomato into two 1/4" rounds total (one per sandwich). Thinly slice onion and separate into rings. Have pickle slices ready. If adding bacon, cook to crisp and drain on paper towels; if adding jalapeños or mayo, add them now to taste.

Adjust and serve: Taste and adjust condiments as desired. Serve the burger immediately while hot with fries or your choice of side.