Cheeseburger Recipe

Form patties

Place ground beef in a mixing bowl. Add kosher salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Gently mix with your hands just until combined — do not overwork. Divide into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Lightly press each portion into a patty about 3.5 inches wide and roughly 3/4-inch thick, making a slight dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to reduce puffing during cooking.

Preheat pan or grill

Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add the oil, or preheat a grill to medium-high (about 400°F / 200°C). The surface should be hot so patties sizzle on contact.

Cook patties

Place patties on the hot pan or grill, leaving space between them. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes without moving to develop a crust. Flip once and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes for medium doneness. Adjust time for preferred doneness. About 1 minute before you want them done, place a slice of cheddar on each patty; cover the pan or close the grill briefly to melt the cheese.

Prepare toppings

While patties cook, slice the tomato into 1/4-inch rounds, separate and dry lettuce leaves, slice pickles and onions if not already sliced. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of salt on the tomato slices and set aside.

Toast buns

Butter the cut faces of the buns lightly. After patties are nearly finished, place buns butter-side down on a separate skillet or on the grill for 30–60 seconds until golden and lightly toasted. Watch closely so they do not burn.

Assemble burgers

Spread 1 teaspoon mayonnaise on the top bun and 1/2 teaspoon mustard on the bottom bun (adjust to taste). Place the lettuce leaf on the bottom bun, then the cheeseburger patty. Top with a slice of tomato, two pickle slices (or more to taste), and a few rings of sliced onion. Cap with the top bun.

If desired, add a few drops of hot sauce to the cheese before placing the top bun, or brush a little extra mayonnaise on the buns. Serve immediately while hot.