The Classic Cheeseburger Recipe

Form patties

Divide the 1 lb of ground chuck into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Gently form each portion into a 3.5 to 4-inch wide patty about 3/4-inch thick, making a slight dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to help them cook evenly and prevent bulging.

Prep produce and buns

Wash and pat dry lettuce leaves. Slice the tomato into four 1/4-inch thick rounds. Peel and thinly slice the red onion into rings. Separate 8 pickle slices. Split brioche buns and soften the butter so it's easy to spread.

Season patties

Season both sides of each formed patty with a light pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (approximately 1/4 tsp salt + 1/4 tsp pepper per patty).

Preheat a cast-iron skillet or flat-top griddle over medium-high heat until hot (about 3–5 minutes). Add 1 tablespoon neutral oil and swirl to coat. Place the patties on the hot surface leaving space between them. Cook undisturbed for 3 minutes to develop a crust.

Flip the patties and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes for medium doneness. After flipping, place one slice of cheese on each patty. For medium-well, cook an extra 1–2 minutes. Use an instant-read thermometer if desired: 160°F (71°C) for well-done, 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare (adjust safe cooking preference).

While the cheese melts, spread softened butter on the cut sides of the brioche buns. Transfer the buns, buttered-side down, to a separate skillet or the empty edge of the griddle and toast over medium heat until golden, about 30–60 seconds. Remove buns when toasted.

On the bottom half of each toasted brioche bun, spread mayonnaise and/or mustard and ketchup as desired (about 1 tsp each). Place one lettuce leaf on each bottom bun to act as a moisture barrier.

Place the hot, cheese-topped patty on the lettuce. Top each patty with one tomato slice, a few rings of red onion (about 3–4 rings), and two pickle slices. Add a final squirt or spread of ketchup and/or mustard if desired.

Cap with the toasted top bun and serve immediately while hot. Offer extra condiments on the side.