Like A Boss Recipe

Mix and Form

Transfer the ground beef to a large bowl. Add kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Gently toss with your hands or a fork until evenly combined — avoid overworking the meat to keep patties tender.

Portion

Divide the mixture into four even portions (about 5 oz / 140 g each). Lightly shape each portion into a loose ball, then flatten into patties about 3/4" thick and slightly wider than the buns. Press a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent doming while cooking.

Rest

Place patties on a plate, cover loosely with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to relax the meat and help them hold shape.

Cook

Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until very hot, about 3–5 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and swirl. Add patties (work in batches if needed) and cook undisturbed 3–4 minutes until a deep brown crust forms. Flip and place a cheddar slice on each patty, then cook another 2–3 minutes for medium (adjust time to reach desired doneness). Transfer cooked patties to a plate and let rest 2–3 minutes.

While patties rest (or up to 1 day ahead), whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, sweet pickle relish, hot sauce, smoked paprika, lemon juice, and salt in a small bowl until smooth and cohesive. Taste and adjust seasoning — add more hot sauce for heat or more relish for sweetness. Refrigerate until ready to assemble.

Prep Veggies

Thinly slice the red onion and tomato. Separate and rinse lettuce leaves, then pat dry. Keep slices and leaves chilled until assembly.

Toast Buns

Spread softened butter on the cut sides of the buns. In a clean skillet over medium heat, toast buttered cut sides until golden and crisp, about 1–2 minutes. Alternatively, toast under a broiler for 1–2 minutes, watching closely.

Assemble

Spread 1–2 tablespoons of Boss Sauce on both top and bottom bun halves. Place lettuce on the bottom bun, then the cheesy patty, followed by a tomato slice and a few onion rings. Add a drizzle of extra sauce if desired, then cap with the top bun.

Serve

Serve the burgers immediately with optional fries, pickles, or a side salad. Enjoy while hot.