Joia Burger Recipe

Form patties

Divide the 1 lb ground sirloin into four even portions (about 4 oz each). Gently form each portion into a patty about 3/4-inch thick and slightly wider than the bun. Avoid overworking the meat. Use your thumb to make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly.

Season

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

Toast buns

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Spread softened butter on the cut sides of the buns. Place buns cut-side down on the dry skillet until golden and lightly crisp, about 1–2 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Cook patties

Increase heat to medium-high and add 1 tbsp vegetable oil to the pan. When oil is shimmering, add patties, leaving space between them. Cook for 3–4 minutes on the first side without pressing. Flip and cook 2–3 minutes on the second side for medium (adjust time for desired doneness). During last 30–45 seconds of cooking, place a slice of American cheese on each patty and cover the pan with a lid to melt the cheese.

Assemble burgers

Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom bun, add the melted-cheese-topped patty, then 1–2 slices of tomato and thin rings of red onion. Spread optional sauce on the top bun if using. Close the burger and serve immediately alongside the Italian fries.

Prepare the tomato and onion while the patties rest or cook. Slice the tomato into 1/4-inch thick rounds (about 8 slices from 1 large tomato). Slice the red onion into thin rings and separate. Wash and pat dry lettuce leaves. Keep toppings chilled until assembly.

Prep potatoes

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and scrub the russet potatoes, then cut into 1/4- to 1/3-inch fries (matchstick or wedge style as preferred). Pat the cut potatoes dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Season fries

In a large bowl, toss the dried potato pieces with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper until evenly coated.

Bake

Arrange the seasoned fries in a single layer on a parchment-lined or lightly oiled baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden brown and crisp at the edges. Cooking time will vary with thickness—adjust to reach desired crispness.

Finish

Remove fries from the oven and immediately toss with 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese and 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley so the cheese melts slightly and adheres. Taste and adjust salt if needed. Keep warm until serving.

Combine 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tsp yellow mustard, 1 tsp ketchup, 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce, and 1/4 tsp black pepper in a small bowl. Mix until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning. Spread about 1 tbsp on each top bun when assembling burgers.