Cork Burger Recipe

Form Patties

Divide 0.75 lb ground beef into one rounded ball and gently form into a patty approx. 3.5–4 inches in diameter and about 3/4 inch thick in center. Do not overwork meat — press lightly and make a slight dimple in the center with your thumb to help cook evenly.

Season both sides of the patty with 1/2 tsp kosher salt and 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper immediately before cooking.

Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add 1 tbs vegetable oil and spread to coat.

Place patty on the hot surface and cook for 3–4 minutes without moving to develop a good crust.

Flip the patty and immediately place 1 slice American cheese on top. Cook an additional 3–4 minutes for medium doneness (internal temp ~155–160°F). Adjust time +/- for preferred doneness. If using bacon, cook bacon in a separate pan to desired crispness while burgers cook.

While the patty cooks, spread 1 tsp softened butter on the cut sides of the bun. Toast buttered cut sides on the griddle or skillet until golden-brown, about 60–90 seconds. Remove and keep warm.

Spread 2 tbs house burger spread evenly on the bottom bun. Spread a light layer on the top bun if desired.

When the patty is finished and cheese is melted, transfer the patty to the bottom bun on top of the burger spread.

Top the cheese-topped patty with shredded iceberg lettuce (about 1/4 cup), 1 slice tomato, 2 thin onion rings, and 3 dill pickle slices. Add cooked bacon (2 slices) if using.

Place the top bun over the assembled toppings, press gently to set, and serve immediately.

If using frozen fries: Preheat oven and cook according to package directions (typically 425°F for 15–20 minutes), or deep-fry at 350°F for 3–4 minutes until golden. If using fresh fries: cut potatoes into shoestrings, rinse, pat dry, and either deep-fry at 325°F for a few minutes then 375°F to finish, or bake at 425°F until crisp, tossing in 1 tbs vegetable oil before baking.

Season fries with 1/4 tsp fine sea salt immediately after cooking. Serve alongside the burger.

Place the assembled Cork Burger on a plate with the chosen side (fries shown). Offer ketchup, mustard, or additional spread on the side if desired. Enjoy while hot.