Custom Burger Recipe

Form and season patty

Gently form the 1/4-lb portion of ground beef into a patty about 3.5–4 inches in diameter and roughly 3/4 inch thick. Make a shallow dimple in the center with your thumb to reduce puffing. Season both sides evenly with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.

Cook patty

Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add 1 tbs vegetable oil. When oil is shimmering, place the patty on the pan. Cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes until a brown crust forms. Flip and cook 2–3 minutes for medium (adjust time for desired doneness). If using cheese, place slice on the patty during the last 45–60 seconds and cover pan briefly to melt.

Toast bun

While the patty rests 1–2 minutes, split the bun and spread 1/2 tbs softened butter on cut sides. Toast cut-side down in the same pan or a toaster for 1–2 minutes until golden and lightly crisp.

Assemble burger: spread chosen condiments (ketchup 1 tbs, mustard 1 tsp, mayonnaise 1 tbs) on bun halves. Place lettuce leaf on bottom bun, then the cooked patty with cheese, followed by tomato slices, red onion, pickles and any premium toppings chosen (bacon, mushrooms, caramelized onions, avocado). Top with bun crown and serve.

If adding cheese, lay the selected slice on the patty about 45–60 seconds before the patty finishes cooking and cover the pan with a lid for 30–60 seconds to help melt.

Prepare toppings while the patty cooks: wash lettuce, slice tomato (2 slices), thinly slice red onion (3 slices), and ready pickle slices. Add these to the assembled burger as desired.

Cook bacon

Cook 2 slices of bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, about 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally. Drain on paper towel.

Sauté mushrooms

For 1/4 cup sautéed mushrooms: heat 1 tsp oil in a small pan over medium-high, add mushrooms, season lightly with salt, and cook until browned, about 4–5 minutes.

Caramelize onions (quick method)

For 1/4 cup caramelized onions: heat 1 tsp oil or butter in a skillet over medium-low, add thinly sliced onion and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until soft and sweet, about 12–15 minutes. For speed, add 1/2 tsp sugar and 1 tsp water to encourage browning.

Slice avocado and add to burger just before serving to avoid browning.

If serving fries: follow package directions for 3 oz of frozen fries. For oven method: preheat oven to package temperature (typically 425°F / 220°C). Toss fries with 1 tsp oil, spread on a baking sheet in a single layer, bake 12–18 minutes until golden and crisp, flipping halfway. Season with 1/4 tsp salt and serve alongside burger.

If serving salad: toss 1 cup mixed greens, 4 cucumber slices and 4 halved cherry tomatoes with 2 tsp vinaigrette just before serving. Serve chilled alongside burger as the alternative to fries.