Grass-fed Hamburger* Recipe

Form patties

Divide the 1 lb ground grass-fed beef into two equal portions (about 8 oz / 225 g each). Gently form each portion into a patty roughly 3½–4 inches in diameter and about 3/4 inch thick. Make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to help them cook evenly and avoid doming.

Season both sides of each patty with kosher salt (about 1/2 tsp per side total) and freshly ground black pepper. If using, brush or sprinkle 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce over the patties for extra umami, then pat lightly so it adheres.

Cook the patties

Heat a large heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until very hot, about 3–4 minutes. Add 1 tbsp neutral oil and swirl to coat. Place the patties in the skillet (do not overcrowd). Cook without moving for 3–4 minutes to develop a crust. Flip once and cook another 3–4 minutes for medium (adjust 1–2 minutes less for rare or more for well done). During the last 1 minute of cooking, add the cheese slice on top of each patty and cover the pan briefly with a lid to melt the cheese.

After cooking, transfer patties to a plate and rest for 2–3 minutes. While resting, spoon any pan juices over the patties if desired.

Toast buns

Split the brioche buns and spread about 1/2 tbsp softened butter on each cut side. Place buns cut-side down in a separate dry skillet over medium heat or on a griddle. Toast until golden brown and fragrant, about 1–2 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Prepare toppings

While patties cook, slice the tomato into 1/4-inch rounds and thinly slice the red onion. Rinse and dry the lettuce leaves. Mix mayonnaise (2 tbs) with yellow mustard (1 tsp) and ketchup (1 tbsp) in a small bowl for a simple burger sauce; adjust to taste.

Assemble

Spread some of the mayo-mustard-ketchup sauce on both toasted bun halves (or just the top/bottom as preferred). Place lettuce on the bottom bun, add the rested cheeseburger patty, top with tomato slice(s), red onion rings, and dill pickle slices. Cap with the top bun.

Prepare your chosen side while patties cook and rest. For fries: cook frozen fries according to package directions (oven-bake or fry) or pan-fry fresh fries in oil until golden and crispy, then season with salt. For salad: toss mixed greens with a light vinaigrette and season to taste.

Plate the assembled burger with the chosen side and serve immediately.