Royal With Cheese Recipe

1. Make the fancy sauce first so flavors can meld. In a small bowl combine 2 tbs mayonnaise, 1 tsp ketchup, 1 tsp yellow mustard, 1 tsp sweet pickle relish, 1/2 tsp vinegar, 1 tsp very finely minced onion, 1/4 tsp grated garlic, 1/4 tsp paprika, 1/8 tsp salt and 1/8 tsp black pepper. Stir until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning. Cover and refrigerate while you prepare the burger.

2. Form and season patty

Lightly form ground beef into a 4 oz patty about 3.5–4 inches across and about 3/4 inch thick. Do not overwork the meat. Make a shallow dimple in the center with your thumb to reduce puffing. Season both sides with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper just before cooking.

3. Cook patty

Preheat a cast-iron skillet or flat griddle over medium-high heat until hot (about 3–5 minutes). If using a grill, preheat to medium-high. Place the seasoned patty on the hot surface. Cook for 3 minutes without moving to develop a crust. Flip and cook for another 2–3 minutes for medium (internal temperature ~140–145°F / 60–63°C). During the last 30–45 seconds of cooking, place the cheddar slice on the patty, cover the pan briefly or place a lid to help the cheese melt.

4. Toast bun

While the patty rests for 1–2 minutes, butter the cut sides of the bun with about 1 tsp softened butter and toast them on the skillet or griddle until golden, about 30–60 seconds. Keep warm.

5. Assemble burger

Spread a generous layer (about 1–1.5 tbs) of the prepared fancy sauce on the bottom bun. Place lettuce (leaf or shredded) on the sauce, then the rested patty with melted cheddar. Top the patty with tomato slice, red onion slices and pickles if using. Spread a light smear (about 1/2 tsp) of sauce on the top bun and place on top. Serve immediately.