Hamburger Recipe
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness.
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Ingredients
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Beef patties
Buns & assembly
Toppings (choose or serve on side)
Method
Beef patties
- 1
Prepare meat
Place 1 lb ground beef in a large bowl. Add 1 tsp kosher salt, 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper and 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce if using. Gently fold the seasonings into the meat with your hands or a spatula just until combined — do not overwork the meat or patties will become dense.
- 2
Form patties
Divide the meat into four equal portions (about 4 oz each). Gently shape each portion into a patty about 3/4" thick and slightly wider than your bun. Make a shallow 1/2"-wide indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to help keep them from puffing up while cooking.
- 3
Cook patties
Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until hot. Add 1 tablespoon neutral oil and swirl to coat. Place patties in the pan without crowding; cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side without pressing. Flip and cook another 3 minutes for medium-rare/medium (internal temp 130-140°F/54-60°C) or 4-5 minutes for medium-well (150°F/66°C). If adding cheese, place a slice on each patty during the last 1 minute of cooking and cover the pan to melt.
- 4
Food safety note
Because consuming undercooked ground beef increases the risk of foodborne illness, cook to an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C) for well-done burgers. Use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the patty to check doneness.
Buns & assembly
- 5
- 6
Assemble burgers: spread mayonnaise on the bottom bun and ketchup and/or mustard on the top bun as desired. Place lettuce leaf on bottom bun, then the cooked patty with cheese, a tomato slice, red onion, and pickles. Top with the bun and serve immediately.
Toppings (optional)
- 7
Slice tomato into 1/4" rounds and separate lettuce into leaves. Thinly slice red onion into rings and keep pickles ready. Serve additional condiments on the side for guests who want extra.