All American Burger Recipe

Form patties

Divide the ground beef into two equal portions (about 8 oz each). Gently shape each portion into a patty about 3/4 inch thick and slightly wider than the buns. Do not overwork the meat. Make a shallow indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to help them cook flat.

Season

Season both sides of each patty evenly with kosher salt and black pepper just before cooking.

Cook patties

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. When the oil is shimmering, place the patties in the pan (do not overcrowd). Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until a brown crust forms. Flip and cook the second side 2-3 minutes for medium (adjust time for desired doneness). In the last 30-45 seconds of cooking, place one slice of American cheese on each patty and cover the pan or tent with foil to melt the cheese.

Toast buns

While the patties rest, spread softened butter on the cut sides of the buns. Place buns cut-side down on a dry skillet or griddle over medium heat and toast 1-2 minutes until golden and slightly crisp. Remove from heat.

Prepare vegetables

Slice the tomato into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Thinly slice the red onion into rings. If using iceberg lettuce leaves, trim to bun size and pat dry. Set aside enough lettuce, tomato slices, onion rings and pickle slices for two burgers.

Assemble burgers

Spread about 1 teaspoon ketchup and 1/2 teaspoon mustard on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a lettuce leaf on each bottom bun, then a tomato slice, the hot cheeseburger patty (cheese side up), and a few red onion rings. Add pickle slices if desired. Cover with the top bun.

Serve

Serve immediately while hot, with fries or chips if desired.