Build Your Own Burger Recipe

Mix and form patties

Place the ground beef in a large bowl. Add kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper and Worcestershire sauce. Gently mix with your hands just until combined — do not overwork. Divide into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each for 1 lb total) and form into patties roughly 3/4" thick with a slight depression in the center to prevent doming while cooking.

Cook patties

Heat a heavy skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil, spreading to coat the surface. Once shimmering, add patties (work in batches if necessary) and cook undisturbed 3-4 minutes on the first side until a brown crust forms. Flip and cook 2-4 minutes more for medium doneness (adjust time for preference). If using cheese, place a slice on each patty in the last 1 minute of cooking and cover the pan to melt.

Transfer cooked patties to a plate and loosely tent with foil. Let rest 3-5 minutes before assembling to retain juices.

Prepare spreads

In a small bowl combine mayonnaise, mustard and ketchup. Taste and adjust ratio if desired. This will be the sandwich spread.

Toast buns

Split buns and spread softened butter on cut sides. Toast buttered sides on the hot skillet or griddle (used for patties) for 30–60 seconds until golden and slightly crisp. Remove and keep warm.

Prepare vegetables

Slice the tomato into 4 even rounds. Thinly slice the red onion into rings and separate. If using avocado, slice just before assembly to prevent browning. Pat lettuce leaves dry and trim any large stems.

Spread about 1 tablespoon of the mayo-mustard-ketchup mixture on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a lettuce leaf on the sauce, then a cooked patty (with cheese if used). Top the patty with tomato slice, a few onion rings, and two dill pickle slices. Add bacon or avocado if using. Finish with more spread on the top bun and place it on the burger.

Serve immediately with preferred sides (fries, salad). Provide extra condiments at the table.