Brunch Burger Recipe

Par-cook potatoes

Place diced potatoes in a pot, cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, bring to a simmer and cook 6–7 minutes until just tender but not falling apart. Drain well and let steam-dry for 1–2 minutes.

Sear and crisp

Heat a 10" skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil. When shimmering, add par-cooked potatoes in an even layer. Let cook undisturbed 3–4 minutes until golden, then stir. Add diced onion and red pepper and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, 4–6 minutes until vegetables are soft and potatoes are crisp. Season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, 1/2 tsp kosher salt and 1/8 tsp black pepper. Keep warm in the skillet or transfer to a low oven (200°F / 95°C).

Cook bacon

In a separate skillet over medium heat, add bacon slices in a single layer. Cook 3–4 minutes per side until crispy (or desired doneness). Transfer bacon to paper towels to drain and keep warm.

Fry egg

Using the same pan (drain excess bacon fat if more than 1 tablespoon), reduce heat to medium-low and add 1 tsp butter. Crack 1 large egg into the pan and cook sunny-side up until whites are set but yolk remains runny, about 2–3 minutes. Season with 1/8 tsp salt and a pinch of black pepper. If you prefer, cover the pan for 20–30 seconds to set the whites more fully without overcooking yolk.

Form and season patty

Divide 10 oz house-blend ground beef into a single 10 oz portion (recipe uses 0.625 lb to yield a 10 oz finished patty for one serving). Gently form into a round patty about 3/4–1" thick, making a shallow dimple in the center with your thumb to prevent doming. Season both sides with 1 tsp kosher salt and 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper just before cooking.

Cook patty

Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron over medium-high heat until very hot. Add 1 tbs neutral oil and swirl. Add the patty and cook undisturbed 3–4 minutes to develop a crust. Flip and cook 3–4 minutes for medium (adjust 1–2 minutes per side for desired doneness). In the last 60 seconds of cooking, place 2 slices of cheddar cheese on the patty and cover the pan to melt cheese.

Toast buns

While the patty rests 1–2 minutes, spread softened butter on cut sides of the bun and toast in a clean skillet or under a broiler until golden, about 1–2 minutes.

Assemble burger

Place the cheese-topped patty on the bottom bun. Layer with 3 slices of crispy bacon, then top with the fried egg (sunny-side up). Add a spoonful of warm home fries on the side of the patty or piled lightly onto the burger as desired. Place top bun over the egg.

Make drizzle

Whisk together 2 tbs pure maple syrup, 1/2 tsp apple cider vinegar and 1/4 tsp hot sauce (optional) in a small bowl to balance sweetness with tang and a hint of heat.

Finish and serve

Lightly drizzle the maple mixture over the assembled burger and the served home fries (about 1–2 teaspoons on the burger, remainder for the fries). Garnish with microgreens or chopped chives if using. Serve immediately while hot.