Place the ground beef in a mixing bowl. Add kosher salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Gently mix just until combined; avoid overworking. Divide into two equal portions (about 8 ounces each) and form each into a round patty about 3/4 inch thick, slightly wider than the buns. Make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent excessive doming while cooking.

Cook patties

Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add 1 teaspoon vegetable oil, swirling to coat. When the pan is hot and shimmering (but not smoking), place the patties in the pan. Cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes until a brown crust forms on the bottom. Flip the patties and immediately place one slice of American cheese on each patty. Cook another 3 to 4 minutes for medium (adjust time +/- 1 minute for desired doneness). Remove from pan and tent loosely with foil to rest for 2 minutes.

Buns & Cheese

Toast buns

While the patties are resting, spread about 1/2 tablespoon of softened butter on the cut side of each bun. Return the same skillet to medium heat (wipe excess fat if necessary) and place buns cut-side down in the pan. Toast for 1 to 2 minutes until golden and crisp. Remove from skillet.

Toppings & Assembly

Spread mayonnaise on the bottom bun, and ketchup and mustard on the top bun (or arrange as you prefer). Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom bun, then a cheeseburger patty. Top the patty with two tomato slices, two onion slices, and four pickle slices. Cap with the top bun. Repeat assembly for the second burger.

Serve immediately while hot with your choice of sides (fries, chips).