The Classic Burger Recipe
Make The Classic Burger Recipe in just 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Burger Patties
Buns & Toppings
Condiments
Method
Burger Patties
- 1
Form the patties
Place the ground beef in a large bowl. Sprinkle kosher salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce (if using) over the meat. Gently mix with your hands just until combined—do not overwork. Divide into four equal portions (about 4 oz each). Shape each portion into a patty roughly 3/4-inch thick and slightly wider than the buns. Make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to reduce puffing while cooking.
- 2
Preheat and oil the pan or grill
Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat (or preheat a grill to medium-high). Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil to the pan and let it heat until shimmering. If grilling, lightly oil the grates.
- 3
Cook the patties
Place the patties in the hot pan or on the grill, leaving space between each. Cook without moving for 3 to 4 minutes until a brown crust forms. Flip once and cook an additional 3 minutes for medium doneness. In the last 1 minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty, cover the pan (or close grill lid) to melt the cheese. Adjust cook times +/- 1–2 minutes for rarer or more well-done burgers.
Buns & Toppings
- 4
Prepare vegetables
While the patties cook, slice the tomato into 1/4-inch rounds and thinly slice the red onion into rings. Rinse and dry lettuce leaves and set aside. Have pickle slices ready.
- 5
Condiments & Assembly
- 6
Mix condiments (optional)
In a small bowl combine mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard. Stir until smooth. Taste and adjust ratios to preference. This creates a classic burger sauce.
- 7
Assemble the burgers
Spread a tablespoon (or to taste) of the mixed condiments on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a lettuce leaf on the sauce, then a cheese-topped patty, followed by a tomato slice, onion rings, and two pickle slices. Spread a little mayonnaise or additional sauce on the top bun and close the burger.
- 8
Serve
Serve immediately while hot with fries or a side salad. Provide extra condiments on the side.