*shiitake Swiss Cheeseburger Recipe

Sauté mushrooms and shallot

Heat 1 teaspoon neutral oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped shiitake mushrooms and minced shallot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and the shallot is translucent and the mixture is mostly dry, about 6–8 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Mix beef

In a large bowl combine the ground beef, cooled mushroom-shallot mixture, Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp kosher salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Gently mix with your hands or a fork until ingredients are just combined — do not overwork the meat or patties will be tough.

Form patties

Divide the mixture into two equal portions and form two patties about 3/4–1 inch thick. Make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent doming during cooking.

Cook patties

Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy pan over medium-high heat until hot. Add a light brush of oil or spray. Place the patties in the skillet and cook 3–4 minutes without moving for a medium-rare to medium sear. Flip and cook another 3 minutes for medium, or longer to desired doneness. In the last 1–1.5 minutes of cooking, place two slices of Swiss cheese on each patty, cover the skillet with a lid to melt the cheese.

While patties cook, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 1/2 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp lemon juice, 1/2 tsp grated garlic, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper in a small bowl until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning. Refrigerate until assembly.

Toast buns

Spread softened butter on the cut sides of the buns. Toast in a hot dry skillet or under a broiler for 1–2 minutes until golden and fragrant. Watch carefully to avoid burning.

Assemble burgers

Spread about 1–2 tablespoons of mustard aioli on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place the Swiss-topped burger patty on the aioli. Top each patty with 1 cup arugula (divide evenly) and optional pickle slices. Spread a thin layer of aioli on the top bun and close the burger. Serve immediately.

Oven method (recommended for frozen or fresh)

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss 12 oz fries with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper on a rimmed baking sheet in a single layer. Bake 18–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp. Remove from oven and keep warm.

Pan-fry method (for fresh cut)

If using fresh cut fries, heat 2–3 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add fries in a single layer and cook, turning often, until golden and crispy, about 12–15 minutes. Season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper and transfer to paper towels to drain.