Brontosaurus Burger Recipe

Mix and portion

Place the ground chuck in a large bowl. Add kosher salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Gently combine with your hands or a spatula until just mixed—do not overwork. Divide the meat into two equal portions (about 10 oz / 280 g each).

Form patties

Shape each portion into a thick patty about 3/4 to 1 inch thick and roughly the diameter of your buns (they will shrink slightly). Press a shallow dimple into the center of each patty with your thumb to help them cook evenly.

Preheat and oil

Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until very hot (about 5 minutes). Add the neutral oil and swirl to coat.

Cook patties

Place patties in the hot skillet. Cook without moving for 3-4 minutes to develop a brown crust. Flip and cook the other side 3 minutes for medium-rare to medium, or longer to desired doneness. In the last 60 seconds of cooking, place a slice of cheddar on each patty and cover the pan for 30–60 seconds to melt.

Cook bacon

While patties cook, place bacon in a separate cold skillet in a single layer. Turn heat to medium and cook, turning occasionally, until crisp (about 8–10 minutes). Transfer to paper towels to drain.

Prepare vegetables

Thinly slice the red onion into rings. Slice the tomato into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Wash and dry lettuce leaves. Have dill pickle slices ready.

Make the Brontosaurus sauce

In a small bowl combine mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, smoked paprika, and hot sauce if using. Stir until smooth and taste; adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt if desired.

Toast buns

Spread 1 tbsp unsalted butter on the cut sides of each bun half. Place buttered sides down in a skillet over medium heat and toast until golden brown, about 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat.

Spread a generous tablespoon of Brontosaurus sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a leaf or two of lettuce on the sauce to act as a moisture barrier.

Set the cheddar-topped patty on the lettuce. Top each patty with two slices of crisp bacon, a couple of tomato slices, a few red onion rings, and three pickle slices.

Spread a little sauce on the top bun, close the burger, and press gently to set. Serve immediately with fries or a side salad.