Little Beast Burger Recipe

Heat a medium skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Add the finely diced red onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent and beginning to brown, about 6–8 minutes.

Add the chopped tomatoes, granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, chopped thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer gently, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency and the tomatoes have broken down, about 18–22 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before using.

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and hot sauce (if using). Stir until smooth.

Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Refrigerate until ready to assemble.

Divide the dry-aged prime ground beef into two equal portions (about 8 oz each). Gently form each portion into a loose patty about 3/4-inch thick, being careful not to overwork the meat. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent doming during cooking.

Season both sides of the patties generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper just before cooking.

Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until very hot. Add neutral oil and swirl to coat. Add the patties and cook without moving until a deep brown crust forms, about 3–4 minutes.

Flip the patties and add the unsalted butter to the pan. If using cheese, place a slice on each patty now. Cook another 3–4 minutes for medium (adjust time for desired doneness), spooning melted butter over the patties as they finish.

Transfer patties to a plate and let rest for 3–4 minutes.

Lightly toast the cut sides of the brioche buns in the same skillet over medium heat until golden, about 1–2 minutes, using any leftover butter/oil in the pan.

Spread a generous layer of 1000 Island dressing on the bottom bun. Place 1–2 leaves of lettuce on the bottom bun, then position the rested burger patty on top.

Spoon 1–2 tablespoons of the tomato onion jam over the patty. Add house pickle slices on top of the jam. If you like extra sauce, spread a little 1000 Island on the top bun as well.

Close the burger with the top bun and press gently to set. Serve immediately with extra pickles or fries.