Mcdonald's Recipe

Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz / 113 g each). Lightly form into thin patties about 1/4"–3/8" thick and slightly larger than the buns (they will shrink as they cook). Do not overwork the meat—press just enough to hold shape.

Season both sides of each patty with a light sprinkle of salt, black pepper, and onion powder immediately before cooking.

Make the sauce

In a small bowl combine mayonnaise, French dressing, sweet pickle relish, yellow mustard, white wine vinegar, onion powder, and paprika. Stir until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust: add more relish for sweetness, or a pinch more vinegar for tang. Refrigerate while you prepare the rest—best if chilled 15–30 minutes.

Prepare toppings: shred the iceberg lettuce, slice pickles if not pre-sliced, and thinly slice the yellow onion into rings. If using tomato, slice thinly and pat dry.

Lightly butter the cut sides of each sesame bun with melted butter or brush with oil.

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon neutral oil and let it get hot but not smoking.

Place patties in the skillet in a single layer. Cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes until a brown crust forms on the bottom. Press each patty gently with a spatula for about 5–10 seconds to make them thin and slightly wider (this imitates the flat McDonald’s patty).

Flip the patties and immediately place a slice of American cheese on each patty. Cook another 1–2 minutes until cheese is melty and internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Total cook time per side will vary slightly with thickness—aim for about 3–4 minutes per patty total.

While the patties finish, toast the buttered buns cut-side down on the skillet for 30–60 seconds until golden and fragrant.

Assemble the burgers: spread about 1 tablespoon (or to taste) of special sauce on the bottom bun. Add a small handful (~2 tbsp) of shredded lettuce, place the cheeseburger patty on top, add 2–3 pickle slices, a few rings of sliced onion, and a tomato slice if using. Top with the bun crown.

Serve immediately while hot. Repeat assembly for remaining burgers.