Warrior Recipe

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, dill pickle relish, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, hot sauce (if using), and lemon juice. Whisk until smooth and homogenous. Taste and adjust seasoning—add a pinch of salt or another drop of hot sauce if desired. Refrigerate while preparing the rest of the burger so flavors meld (at least 10 minutes).

Divide ground beef into 6 oz portions (for a single Warrior). For a double Warrior, prepare two 4.5–5 oz patties each. Gently form patties about 3/4-inch thick and slightly wider than the buns; avoid overworking the meat. Make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to help them cook evenly.

Season both sides of each patty with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper immediately before cooking.

Lightly butter the cut sides of the bun with softened butter and set aside.

Assemble and drain toppings: dry lettuce leaves, slice tomatoes and onions, and have pickle slices ready.

Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until very hot (a drop of water should sizzle). Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and spread.

Place patties on the hot surface. Cook without moving for about 3 minutes to develop a good sear. Flip and cook another 2–3 minutes for medium doneness (adjust time for thickness and preferred doneness).

When patties are nearly done (about 30–45 seconds before you want to remove), place a slice of American cheese on each patty and cover the skillet with a lid or tent with foil to melt the cheese for 30–45 seconds.

While cheese is melting, toast the buttered cut sides of the buns on the griddle, pressing gently, until golden and slightly crisp (about 30–60 seconds).

On the bottom bun, spread about 1 tablespoon of GladiatorSauce©. Place lettuce on the sauce to create a moisture barrier.

Place the cheesy beef patty (or stacked patties for a double Warrior) on top of the lettuce.

Top the patty with tomato slices, onion rings, and pickle slices.

Spread another 1 tablespoon of GladiatorSauce© on the inside of the top bun and close the burger.

Press gently to compact and serve immediately with fries or your choice of side.