1/2-pound Angus Beef Hamburger Recipe
House-pattied Angus beef served on a brioche roll with tomatoes, onions, shredded lettuce, and a pickle; choice of cheese on burger
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Ingredients
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Burger
Optional Condiments
Method
Burger
- 1
Form the Patty
Divide 1/2 pound ground Angus into a single portion and gently form into a round patty about 4 to 4.5 inches (10–11 cm) wide and 3/4 inch (2 cm) thick, making a slight indentation in the center with your thumb to reduce dome-up while cooking. Do not overwork the meat to keep the patty tender.
- 2
Season
Pat both sides of the formed patty lightly with 1/2 tsp kosher salt and 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper just before cooking. Seasoning too early can draw moisture out.
- 3
- 4
Cook the Patty
Place the patty on the hot surface. Cook undisturbed for 3:15–3:30 minutes for a medium doneness (adjust time 3:00 for medium-rare, 4:00 for medium-well), until a nice brown crust forms. Flip once using a spatula and cook the second side for 3:00–3:30 minutes.
- 5
- 6
Toast the Brioche
While the cheese melts, spread 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter on the cut faces of the brioche roll. Place roll, buttered side down, on the skillet or griddle and toast 30–60 seconds until golden — you can do this before or after cooking the patty, but ensure the roll is warm and slightly crisp.
- 7
Rest
Remove the cooked patty to a plate and let it rest 1 minute; this helps juices redistribute and keeps the bun from getting soggy.
- 8
Assemble
Spread mayonnaise (1 tbsp) on the top bun if desired and a thin layer of ketchup (1 tsp) and mustard (1/2 tsp) on the bottom bun. Place shredded lettuce (1/2 cup) on the bottom bun to create a moisture barrier, then place the cheeseburger patty on top. Add 2 tomato slices and 3 onion slices. Cap with the top bun. Serve with a dill pickle spear on the side.
Serving & Notes
- 9
Serve immediately while hot. Adjust seasoning or cook time to preference. For a juicier burger, do not press the patty while cooking. For a crisper bottom bun, place lettuce under the patty as instructed. Offer extra condiments on the side.