Steak Burger Recipe

Prepare the meat

If you have whole sirloin steak, trim any large sinew and finely chop by hand into small pieces (or run through a coarse grinder once). Place 1 lb of chopped/ground steak in a bowl.

Add 1 tsp kosher salt, 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, and 1 tbs Worcestershire sauce to the meat. Gently mix with your hands or a spatula until combined—do not overwork, mix just until evenly seasoned.

Divide the seasoned meat into two equal portions and form each into a patty about 3/4 to 1 inch thick and slightly wider than the buns (they will shrink while cooking). Press a shallow dimple in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly.

Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until very hot. Add 1 tbs neutral oil and swirl to coat the pan.

Place the patties in the hot pan (do not overcrowd). Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side without moving, until a deep brown crust forms. Flip and cook 3-4 minutes for medium-rare to medium (adjust time +1-2 minutes per side for medium-well). If using cheese, place a slice on each patty in the last minute of cooking and cover the pan to melt.

Remove patties to a plate and tent loosely with foil. Let rest for 3-5 minutes to redistribute juices.

While the patties rest, slice the tomato into 1/4-inch thick rounds and season lightly with a pinch of salt and pepper if desired.

Separate and wash lettuce leaves; pat dry.

Thinly slice 1/4 of a red onion if using.

Heat a separate clean skillet or use the same pan on low heat. Spread 1 tbs butter on the cut sides of each bun. Toast the buns, cut-side down, in the skillet until golden and crisp, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat.

Mix 2 tbs mayonnaise and 1 tsp Dijon mustard in a small bowl. Taste and adjust (add more mustard for tang or mayo for creaminess).

Spread the mayonnaise-mustard mixture on the bottom half of each toasted bun.

Place a lettuce leaf (or two) on the sauced bun, then set the rested steak patty on top.

Arrange 2 tomato slices over the patty, add a few thin onion rings if using, then cover with the top bun.

Serve immediately while hot. Optionally serve with fries or a simple salad.