The Del Recipe

Form patties

Divide the ground beef into two equal portions (about 8 oz / 225 g each). Gently form each portion into a patty roughly 3/4 inch (2 cm) thick and slightly wider than the bun. Make a small shallow indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to reduce doming during cooking.

Season patties

Lightly season both sides of the patties with the salt and black pepper, then brush or sprinkle the Worcestershire sauce evenly over one side of each patty.

Cook bacon

In a skillet over medium heat, lay the bacon strips in a single layer. Cook until crisp or to your preferred doneness, about 6–9 minutes, turning occasionally. Transfer cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Keep the bacon fat in the pan for additional flavor if desired, or discard and wipe pan clean.

Toast buns

Split the burger buns and spread about 1 tsp softened butter on each cut side. Place buns butter-side down in a clean skillet or on a griddle over medium heat. Toast until golden and lightly crisp, 1–2 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Cook patties

Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add 1 tsp vegetable oil. When shimmering, add the patties. Cook without moving for 3–4 minutes until a brown crust forms. Flip and cook another 3 minutes for medium doneness (adjust time if you prefer rarer or more well-done).

Add cheese

About 1 minute before the patties are done, place a slice of cheddar on each patty. Cover the pan with a lid (or a large bowl) for 30–60 seconds to help the cheese melt evenly.

Fry eggs

While the cheese is melting, in a separate small nonstick skillet over medium-low heat, add a tiny pat of butter or a few drops of oil. Crack the eggs into the skillet and cook sunny-side up until the whites are set but yolks remain runny, 3–4 minutes. If you prefer the yolk less runny, cover the pan for the last minute or flip gently for an over-easy egg and cook 30–45 seconds more.

Assemble burgers

Place the bottom bun on a plate. If using, add optional lettuce and tomato slices. Place the cheddar-topped patty onto the bun. Lay two bacon strips over the patty. Carefully place the fried egg on top of the bacon. Add pickles if desired, then crown with the top bun.

Serve

Serve immediately while hot. Provide napkins or a knife and fork for the runny yolk if desired.