Burger Recipe

Form the 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 the meat into two equal portions (about 8 oz each). Shape each portion into a loose ball, then flatten to a patty roughly 3/4 inch thick and slightly wider than the buns. Press a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to help them cook evenly.

Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy pan over medium-high heat until very hot (about 3–5 minutes). Add the oil and swirl to coat.

Place the patties in the hot skillet, leaving space between them. Cook without moving for 3–4 minutes until a brown crust forms on the bottom. Flip the patties and cook for another 3 minutes for medium (adjust time for desired doneness). During the last 1 minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar on each patty and cover the skillet briefly or reduce heat and cover to melt the cheese.

Transfer the cooked patties to a plate and allow to rest for 2–3 minutes while you finish the buns and assemble.

Slice the buns if not pre-sliced. Spread softened butter on the cut sides of each bun.

Toast the buns: place them buttered-side down in the same skillet over medium heat or on a griddle for 1–2 minutes until golden and slightly crisp. Remove and keep warm.

Prepare toppings: wash and dry lettuce leaves. Slice the tomato into 1/4-inch rounds. Thinly slice the red onion if not already sliced. Have pickle slices ready.

Make the burger sauce: in a small bowl combine mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, dill pickle relish (if using), hot sauce (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and taste; adjust seasoning to taste.

Spread a generous tablespoon of the sauce on the bottom bun.

Place a lettuce leaf on the sauce, then set the cheesy beef patty on top.

Add 2 tomato slices (or as desired), a few onion slices, and 2 pickle slices on top of the patty.

Spread sauce on the top bun if desired, then close the burger. Serve immediately with fries or a side salad.