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Ingredients
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Burger Patties & Seasoning
Tomato Sauce
Assembly & Toppings
Method
Burger Patties & Seasoning
- 1
Mix and form patties
In a bowl, combine ground beef, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp garlic powder, and 1 tsp dried oregano. Gently mix until just combined — do not overwork. Divide mixture into 4 even portions (about 4 oz each) and shape into slightly wider-than-bun patties, creating a shallow indentation in the center of each to prevent doming.
- 2
Cook patties
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When shimmering, add patties (work in batches if needed) and cook 3-4 minutes per side for medium (adjust time for desired doneness). Avoid pressing down on patties. If using an internal thermometer, target 160°F (71°C) for well-done. Remove patties to a plate and tent loosely with foil.
Tomato Sauce
- 3
Sauté aromatics
While patties cook (or in a separate small saucepan), heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add 1/4 cup minced onion and sauté 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add 1 minced garlic clove and cook 30 seconds until fragrant (do not brown).
- 4
Simmer sauce
Stir in 1 cup crushed tomatoes and 1 tbsp tomato paste. Add 1/2 tsp sugar, 1/2 tsp dried basil, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/8 tsp red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to low, and simmer 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning. Keep warm.
Assembly & Finish
- 5
- 6
Top patties with sauce and cheese
Return cooked patties to the skillet over low heat (or place on a foil-lined baking sheet). Spoon about 2 tbsp of warm tomato sauce onto each patty. Top each with 1/4 cup shredded or sliced mozzarella (divide the 1 cup among 4 patties). If using, sprinkle 1/2 tbsp grated Parmesan over each. Cover the skillet or tent the baking sheet with foil and heat 1-2 minutes until cheese melts.
- 7
Assemble burgers
Place each sauced, cheesy patty on the bottom half of a toasted bun. Add 1-2 fresh basil leaves per burger if desired, then top with the bun crowns. Serve immediately with extra tomato sauce on the side for dipping.