Byo Burger Recipe

Form patties

Place the ground beef in a bowl. Gently fold in Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Divide into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each) and gently shape into patties about 3/4 inch thick, making a shallow dimple in the center of each to prevent doming while cooking. Do not overwork the meat.

Season and rest

Season both sides of each patty with the remaining kosher salt and black pepper just before cooking. Let the patties rest at room temperature for 10 minutes while you heat your pan or grill.

Cook patties

Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add neutral oil. When the oil is shimmering and the pan is very hot, place patties with some space between them. Cook 3–4 minutes on the first side without moving to develop a crust. Flip and cook 2–3 minutes for medium-rare to medium, or longer to desired doneness. In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar on each patty and cover the pan or tent with foil to melt the cheese.

Toast buns

Spread softened butter on the cut sides of each bun. After the patties are nearly done, place buns cut-side down on the griddle or in a separate skillet over medium heat until golden brown and crisp, about 1–2 minutes. Remove and keep warm.

Prep vegetables

While patties cook, rinse and dry lettuce leaves, slice tomato into 1/4-inch rounds, thinly slice red onion, and slice pickles if not pre-sliced. Keep toppings ready to assemble.

Make burger sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, sriracha (if using), dill pickle relish (if using), and garlic powder until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning to preference. Set aside.

Optional extras

If using bacon, cook until crisp and drain on paper towels. If using sautéed mushrooms, heat 1 tsp oil in a skillet over medium heat, add sliced mushrooms, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and cook until browned and any liquid has evaporated, about 6–8 minutes.

Spread a generous tablespoon (or to taste) of the prepared sauce on both cut sides of the toasted bun. Place lettuce on the bottom bun, then the cheesy burger patty, tomato slice, red onion, pickles, and any optional extras (bacon, mushrooms, avocado). Top with the bun crown and press lightly to set.

Serve immediately with your choice of sides (fries, salad, or pickles).