Restaurants›The Hornet's Nest Steakhouse›1/2 Lb Nest Burger Recipe

1/2 Lb Nest Burger Recipe

Inspired by The Hornet's Nest Steakhouse
Time25m
Serves1

Make 1/2 Lb Nest Burger Recipe in just 25m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Burger Patties

Bun & Cheese

Toppings & Sauce

Optional (for finishing)

Method

Burger Patties

1

Shape patty

Divide the 0.5 lb ground chuck into a single portion (already 1/2 lb). Gently form it into a round patty about 4-5 inches wide and roughly 3/4 to 1 inch thick. Do not overwork the meat; handle lightly so the patty stays tender. Make a shallow dimple in the center with your thumb to help it cook evenly.

2

Season

Season both sides of the formed patty evenly with 3/4 tsp kosher salt and 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper. If using optional spices, sprinkle 1/8 tsp smoked paprika and 1/8 tsp garlic powder onto the exterior now.

3

Preheat pan or griddle

Heat a cast-iron skillet or flat griddle over medium-high heat until hot, about 3-5 minutes. Add 1 tsp vegetable oil and spread to coat. The surface should shimmer but not smoke excessively.

4

Cook patty

Place the patty on the hot surface. Cook for 4-5 minutes without moving to develop a brown crust. Flip once and immediately add the cheese slice on top of the hot side. Cook another 4-5 minutes for medium (internal temperature about 145-155°F / 63-68°C). For medium-well, add 1-2 minutes. Adjust time for preferred doneness.

5

Rest patty

Transfer the cooked patty to a plate and loosely tent with foil. Rest 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute while you prepare the bun and assemble toppings.

Bun & Cheese

6

Toast bun

While the patty rests or during the last minute of cooking, spread 1 tsp softened butter on the cut sides of the brioche bun. Place buttered sides down on the hot skillet or griddle and toast 30-60 seconds until golden and fragrant. Remove and set aside.

Toppings & Sauce

7

Make sauce

In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon yellow mustard, and 1 teaspoon ketchup until smooth. Taste and adjust proportions if desired.

8

Assemble burger

Spread the sauce evenly on the bottom bun. Place the lettuce leaf on the sauce, then set the rested cheeseburger patty on top. Add the tomato slice, red onion rings, and dill pickle slices. Spread a thin layer of sauce or a dab of mayonnaise on the top bun if desired, then close the burger.

Serving & Finishing

9

Serve the 1/2 LB Nest Burger immediately while hot, with fries, chips, or a side salad. If desired, provide extra ketchup and mustard on the side.