Cheeseburger Recipe

Form the patties

Divide the ground beef into two equal portions (about 8 oz each). Gently form each portion into a patty about 3/4 inch thick and roughly the diameter of the buns, pressing a shallow 1/2-inch-wide indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb (this helps prevent doming during cooking). Do not overwork the meat.

Season

Season both sides of each patty evenly with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. If using, sprinkle 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce over each patty or fold it gently into the meat before forming patties.

Cook the patties

Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon neutral oil and let it shimmer. Place the patties in the hot pan (do not overcrowd). Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side without moving, until a brown crust forms. Flip and cook the second side 2-3 minutes for medium; for medium-well, cook 3-4 minutes. In the last 30-60 seconds of cooking, place one slice of cheese on each patty, cover the pan with a lid or aluminum foil to melt the cheese slightly.

Prepare buns

While the patties cook (or just after), split the buns and spread about 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter on each cut side. Toast the buns cut-side down in a separate skillet over medium heat or in the oven under a broiler for 1-2 minutes until golden and slightly crisp. Watch carefully to avoid burning.

Prep fresh toppings

Wash and dry the lettuce leaves. Slice the tomato into 1/4-inch rounds; use two tomato slices for both burgers or one slice per burger depending on size. Peel and slice red onion into thin rounds; separate into individual slices. Have 4 pickle slices ready (2 per burger).

Mix condiments: spread 1 teaspoon mayonnaise on the top bun and 1 teaspoon ketchup plus 1/2 teaspoon mustard on the bottom bun (adjust to taste).

Assemble: place the dressed bottom bun on a plate, add lettuce, then the hot cheeseburger patty, top with tomato slice(s), onion rings, and pickle slices. Cap with the butter-toasted top bun.

Serve immediately with your choice of sides (fries, salad). If desired, provide extra condiments on the side.