Steak Burger Recipe

Prepare meat

Place the ground beef in a large bowl. Sprinkle kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if using) evenly over the meat. Add Worcestershire sauce and chopped parsley (if using). Gently fold the seasonings into the meat with your hands or a spatula until combined; avoid overworking to keep patties tender.

Form patties

Divide the seasoned beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Lightly shape each portion into a patty about 3/4-inch thick and slightly wider than the buns. Make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent puffing while cooking.

Rest patties

Place formed patties on a tray, cover loosely with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes to help them hold shape (optional but recommended).

Cook patties

Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill over medium-high heat and add olive oil to coat the surface. When the oil is shimmering, place patties in the pan leaving space between them. Cook without moving for 3–4 minutes until a deep brown crust forms on the first side. Flip and cook another 3 minutes for medium-rare to medium (internal temp 130–140°F / 54–60°C). Place a slice of cheddar on each patty during the last 1 minute, then cover the pan or close the grill lid to melt the cheese. Adjust cook time ±1–2 minutes for desired doneness.

While patties rest or during the last minute of cooking, split the buns and spread softened butter on the cut sides. Toast the buns buttered-side down in a separate skillet or on the grill over medium heat until golden brown, about 1–2 minutes. Keep warm until assembly.

Prepare vegetables

Thinly slice the red onion into rings and separate. Slice the tomato into 4 even slices. Rinse and pat dry lettuce leaves. Arrange pickles in a small bowl.

Make sauce

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and ketchup. Stir until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt or more mustard/ketchup as desired.

Assemble burgers: spread about 1 tablespoon of the sauce on the bottom bun, place a lettuce leaf, add the cheesy steak patty, top with tomato slice, a few onion rings, and pickles. Spread sauce or a thin smear of butter on the top bun and place it on the burger. Serve immediately.

Serve the steak burgers hot with optional sides like fries or a simple salad. If making ahead, keep patties loosely covered and reheat briefly in a skillet to preserve juiciness before assembling.