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Ingredients
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Patty & Seasoning
Buns & Cheese
Toppings & Condiments
Hand-Cut Fries
Method
Patty & Seasoning
Prepare and shape patties
Place the ground beef in a bowl. Add kosher salt, black pepper and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Gently mix just until combined—do not overwork. Divide into two equal portions and form each into a loose patty about 4 inches in diameter and roughly 3/4 inch thick. Make a shallow indent in the center of each patty with your thumb to help them cook evenly.
Cook patties
Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. When oil is shimmering, place patties in the pan. Cook undisturbed 3–4 minutes until a brown crust forms. Flip and cook another 2 minutes. Reduce heat to medium-low and place a slice of cheddar on each patty; cover the pan or tent with foil for 1–2 minutes until cheese melts and patties reach desired doneness (about 130–135°F for medium-rare to medium). Remove patties and let rest 2 minutes.
Buns & Cheese
Toppings & Condiments
Prepare toppings: thinly slice the tomato and red onion. Rinse and pat lettuce leaves dry. Spread mayonnaise on the bottom bun, then add lettuce, tomato slice, pickle slices and the cooked cheeseburger patty. Spread ketchup and mustard on the top bun (or serve condiments on the side). Close the burger and set aside while you finish the fries.
Hand-Cut Fries
Cut and rinse potatoes
Wash and peel the russet potatoes if desired. Cut into 1/4–3/8-inch sticks for classic fries. Place cut fries into a bowl of cold water and rinse until water runs clear to remove excess starch. Drain and pat completely dry with kitchen towels—moisture will cause oil to splatter.
Fry (two-stage method)
Heat oil in a deep pot or fryer to 300°F (150°C) for the first blanch. Fry potatoes in small batches 4–5 minutes until they are soft but not colored. Remove to a rack or paper towel-lined tray. Increase oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Fry the blanched fries in batches 2–3 minutes until golden and crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined tray and immediately season with kosher salt and a pinch of pepper.
Alternative oven method
If you prefer not to deep-fry: toss dried cut fries with 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, spread in a single layer on a baking sheet, and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25–35 minutes, flipping once, until golden and crisp. Season with salt and pepper.