Quarter Recipe
Make Quarter Recipe in just 20m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Burger
Bun & Toppings
Optional Add-ins
Method
Burger
- 1
Form the patty
Divide 0.25 lb of 80/20 ground beef and gently form into a 3.5–4 inch wide patty about 3/4 inch thick, without overworking. Make a shallow thumb dimple in the center to help it cook flat.
- 2
Season
Season both sides of the patty with 1/2 tsp kosher salt and 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper evenly just before cooking.
- 3
Cook the patty
Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high until shimmering (about 375–400°F). Add the patty and sear 2–3 minutes without moving to develop a crust. Flip and cook another 1.5–2 minutes for medium (adjust time for desired doneness). Place one slice of American cheese on the patty immediately after flipping or during the final 30–45 seconds; cover the pan briefly with a lid or a stainless-steel bowl to melt the cheese.
Bun & Toppings
- 4
- 5
Prepare sauce
In a small bowl, mix 1 tbs mayonnaise and 1/2 tsp yellow mustard. Spread this mixture on the bottom half of the toasted bun.
- 6
Assemble
Place the lettuce leaf on the sauced bottom bun, add the melted-cheese-topped patty, then layer with 3 pickle slices, 3 rings of thinly sliced red onion, and the tomato slice. Spread additional mayonnaise on the top bun if desired and place it on top.
- 7
Optional add-ins
If using, add 1 slice of cooked bacon on top of the cheese before adding pickles, or drizzle 1 tsp hot sauce over the cheese for a spicy kick.
