Proper Burger Recipe

Form patties

Divide the 1 lb ground beef blend into two equal portions (about 8 oz each). Lightly shape each portion into a round patty about 3/4" thick, making a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to reduce bulging while cooking. Do not overwork the meat; handle gently.

Season

Season both sides of each patty generously with the fine salt and coarsely ground black pepper just before cooking. Salting early will draw moisture out—apply immediately prior to searing.

Preheat and cook

Heat a heavy skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until very hot (a drop of water should sizzle and evaporate). Add 1 tbs neutral oil and spread. Place patties on the hot surface and sear without moving for 3–4 minutes until a brown crust forms. Flip and cook 3 minutes more for medium-rare–medium (adjust 30–60 seconds for desired doneness).

Melt cheese

During the last 60–90 seconds of cooking, place 1 slice of Cabot cheddar on each patty. Cover the skillet with a lid or large bowl to trap steam and help the cheese melt evenly.

Rest patties

Transfer cooked patties to a plate and loosely tent with foil. Rest for 3–5 minutes to let juices redistribute.

Cook bacon

While the patties rest, cook the North Country Smokehouse bacon in a separate skillet over medium heat until crisp, about 6–8 minutes, turning as needed. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Prepare vegetables

Tear or trim lettuce leaves to bun size, slice tomato into 1/3"–1/2" rounds and pat dry, and separate red onion into rings. Keep refrigerated until assembly to maintain crispness.

Toast buns

Butter cut sides of the pretzel buns lightly with the softened butter. Return the hot griddle or a clean skillet to medium heat and toast the buttered cut sides for 30–60 seconds until golden and fragrant. Remove from heat.

Assemble the burger

Place the bottom bun on a plate. If using sauce, spread about 1 tsp on the bun. Add 1 lettuce leaf, then a cheese-topped patty, two bacon strips (overlapping), two tomato slices, and two red onion rings. Add pickles and additional sauce if desired. Crown with the top pretzel bun.

Serve

Serve immediately while hot with fries or a salad. Cut in half if preferred.