Paul’s Burger Recipe
1 lb. of Prime House Grind beef, sliced jalapeños, lettuce, tomato, red onion and pickle, topped with cheddar and mozzarella cheese
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Ingredients
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Burger Patties & Seasoning
Toppings
Cheese & Buns
Optional Sauce
Method
Prep
Make patties
Divide the 1 lb ground beef into two equal portions (about 8 oz each). Gently form each portion into a loose patty about 3/4"–1" thick, slightly wider than the bun to account for shrinkage. Do not overwork the meat. Create a shallow indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to help them cook evenly.
Season both sides of patties evenly with the kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper just before cooking.
If using the optional sauce, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and hot sauce in a small bowl and set aside.
Prepare toppings: wash and dry lettuce leaves; slice tomato and red onion into thin rings; slice jalapeños into rounds; have pickle slices ready.
Cook Patties
Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until very hot, about 3–4 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and swirl to coat.
Place patties in the hot pan, leaving space between them. Cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes to develop a brown crust.
Flip the patties and immediately top each with 1 slice cheddar and 1 slice mozzarella (or layer both slices). Continue cooking for another 3–4 minutes for medium doneness (internal temperature ~ 145–155°F / 63–68°C). Adjust time if you prefer rarer or more well-done.
If the cheese needs to melt faster, cover the pan with a lid for 30–60 seconds after adding cheese.
Toast Buns & Assemble
While patties finish, heat a separate skillet or use the oven broiler to toast buns. Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat. Place cut sides of buns down and toast until golden, about 1–2 minutes. Alternatively, broil cut sides for 30–60 seconds watching carefully.
Spread optional sauce on the bottom bun if using. Place the hot cheese-topped patty on the bottom bun.
Top the patty with sliced jalapeños (use more or fewer to taste), lettuce leaf(s), tomato slice, red onion rings, and 3 pickle slices.
Finish with the top bun and press gently to hold together. Serve immediately.
Notes
Serves 2. Adjust jalapeños to control spice level. For extra smoky flavor, char jalapeño slices in the pan for 1–2 minutes before assembling. Use instant-read thermometer to check doneness if desired.