Classic Recipe

Form patties

Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz / 113 g each). Gently form each portion into a round patty about 3.5–4 inches wide and roughly 3/4 inch thick. Do not overwork the meat — press lightly and create a slight dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to help them cook evenly.

Season both sides of each patty with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. If using, brush a small amount (about 1 tsp total per pound) of Worcestershire sauce on one side before seasoning for added depth.

Make the sauce

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and refrigerate while you cook the patties. Taste and adjust seasoning to preference.

Prepare toppings

Wash and dry the lettuce leaves, slice the tomato into 1/4-inch slices, and thinly slice the red onion. Set aside 2 pickle slices per burger.

Toast buns

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Spread softened butter evenly on the cut sides of the buns. Place buns buttered-side down on the hot skillet and toast until golden brown and slightly crisp, about 1–2 minutes. Remove and keep warm.

Cook patties

Heat the same skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon oil (and 1 tablespoon butter if using) and let it shimmer. Place the patties in the pan, seasoned side down. Cook undisturbed for about 3–4 minutes until a brown crust forms. Flip and cook another 2–3 minutes for medium doneness. Place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty in the last minute of cooking and cover the pan briefly to melt the cheese.

Remove patties and let rest for 2 minutes. While they rest, spread about 1–2 tablespoons of the Classic Sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun.

Assemble the burger: place lettuce on the sauced bottom bun, add the cheeseburger patty, top with tomato slice, 2 pickle slices, a few rings of red onion, and add a little sauce to the top bun if desired. Close and serve immediately.