All American Recipe

Form patties

Divide the 1 lb ground beef into four equal portions (about 4 oz each). Gently form each portion into a round patty about 3.5–4 inches in diameter and roughly 3/4 inch thick. Make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent doming while cooking.

Season

Season both sides of each patty evenly with kosher salt (about 1/4 tsp per side per patty) and a light sprinkling of black pepper and garlic powder.

Preheat grill or skillet

Preheat a grill or heavy skillet (cast iron preferred) over medium-high heat until very hot, about 5 minutes. Brush the cooking surface lightly with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.

Cook patties

Place the patties on the hot grill or skillet. Cook without moving for about 3–4 minutes to develop a char and crust. Flip once and cook the second side for 3–4 minutes for medium doneness (adjust time ±1–2 minutes for rarer or more well-done).

Add cheese

About 1 minute before the patties are done, place an American cheese slice on each patty. If using a skillet, cover loosely with a lid or a piece of foil to help the cheese melt.

Toast buns

While the cheese melts, spread softened butter on the cut sides of the buns. Place them butter-side-down on the grill or skillet for about 30–60 seconds, until golden and lightly toasted. Remove promptly to prevent burning.

Assemble

Place each cheese-topped patty on the bottom half of a toasted bun. Add optional toppings: a layer of shredded lettuce, a tomato slice, a few rings of red onion, and two pickle slices if using. Spread mustard, ketchup, and/or mayonnaise on the top bun as desired. Close the burger and serve immediately.

Prepare toppings while patties cook: wash and shred lettuce, slice tomato into 4 even slices, thinly slice red onion, and have pickle slices ready. Portion mustard, ketchup, and mayonnaise into small bowls or squeeze bottles for easy spreading.

Adjust condiments to taste when assembling each burger; recommended amounts per burger are 1/2 tsp mustard, 1/2 tsp ketchup, and 1/2 tsp mayonnaise, or to taste.