Cheeseburger Recipe

Form patties

Divide the ground beef into two equal portions (about 4 oz each). Gently form each portion into a round patty about 3.5–4 inches wide and roughly 3/4 inch thick. Make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to reduce doming during cooking.

Season patties

Lightly season both sides of each patty with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper just before cooking. Do not overwork the meat while forming patties to keep them tender.

Cook patties

Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. When oil is shimmering and the pan is hot, add patties making sure not to crowd the pan. Cook the patties for 3–4 minutes on the first side without moving to develop a crust. Flip and cook 2–3 minutes on the second side for medium (adjust time +/- 1–2 minutes for desired doneness).

Melt cheese on patties

During the last 60–90 seconds of cooking, place 1–2 slices of your chosen cheese on each patty (or 2 oz crumbled bleu spread evenly). To help the cheese melt, cover the skillet with a lid for about 30–60 seconds until the cheese is melted and slightly glossy. If using bleu crumbles, scatter them on top and cover just long enough to warm them.

Toast buns

While the patties finish cooking, spread softened butter on the cut faces of the buns. Place buns face-down in a separate skillet or on a griddle over medium heat and toast for 1–2 minutes until golden and slightly crisp. Remove and set aside.

Prepare toppings

Wash and dry lettuce. Slice tomato and onion into even slices. Lay out pickle slices. Assemble toppings so they’re ready to build the burger.

Assemble burger

Spread mayonnaise on the bottom bun and a thin layer of ketchup and mustard on the top bun (or as desired). Place lettuce on the bottom bun, then the cheese-topped patty, followed by tomato, onion, and pickles. Finish with the top bun.

Cut the assembled cheeseburger in half if desired and serve immediately with fries, chips, or a side salad. Offer extra condiments on the side. Internal temperature for a safe medium burger is 160°F (71°C) if you prefer well-done; adjust cooking time accordingly.