Cheeseburger Recipe

Form

Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz / 113 g each). Gently shape each portion into a patty about 3.5–4 inches wide and roughly 3/4 inch thick. Make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb—this helps them cook evenly and prevents bulging.

Season both sides of each patty with a light sprinkle of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. If using Worcestershire sauce, add about 1 tsp to the meat before forming or brush lightly on the formed patties.

Slice tomato into 1/4-inch thick rounds and separate into 4 slices. Thinly slice the red onion into rings. Rinse and spin-dry lettuce leaves. Have pickles and cheese slices ready.

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Spread 2 tbs butter (or 1 tbs butter per side for all buns) across a clean area of the skillet or melt in a second pan. Split the buns and place cut-side down on the skillet. Toast until golden brown and slightly crisp, about 1–2 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Increase heat to medium-high and add 1 tbs neutral oil to the skillet. When the oil is shimmering and the pan is hot, place the patties in the skillet, leaving space between them (cook in batches if needed).

Cook the patties for about 3–4 minutes on the first side without moving them, until a brown crust forms. Flip and cook for another 2–3 minutes for medium doneness (internal temperature about 145–150°F / 63–66°C). Adjust time if you prefer rarer or more well-done burgers.

About 1 minute before the patties are done, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty. Cover the skillet loosely with a lid or a piece of foil for about 30–60 seconds to help the cheese melt.

Spread mayonnaise on the bottom bun (about 1–2 tbs each), then add a little ketchup (about 1 tsp) and mustard (about 1/2 tsp) if desired. Place a lettuce leaf on the bun, then the cheeseburger patty with melted cheese.

Top the patty with a tomato slice, a few rings of red onion, and two pickle slices. Place the top bun and press lightly to hold together.

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