Cheeseburger Recipe

Form patties

Divide the 1 lb ground beef into two equal portions (about 8 oz each). Gently shape each portion into a patty about 3/4 inch thick and slightly wider than the bun. Do not overwork the meat. Press a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to help them cook evenly.

Season both sides of each patty with 1/2 tsp kosher salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. If using, lightly brush or mix 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce into the surface of the patties for extra flavor.

Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tbs vegetable oil and swirl to coat. When the oil is shimmering and the pan is hot, add the patties. Cook without moving for 3 to 4 minutes until a brown crust forms.

Flip the patties and cook 2 to 3 minutes more for medium doneness. In the last 30–45 seconds of cooking, place one slice of American cheese on each patty, cover the pan with a lid or a piece of foil to melt the cheese quickly. Remove patties to a plate and let rest for 1–2 minutes.

While the patties cook, split the 2 hamburger buns and spread about 1/2 tbs butter on each cut side. Place the buns cut-side down in a separate skillet over medium heat or on a griddle and toast 1 to 2 minutes until golden. Alternatively, toast under a broiler for 30–60 seconds, watching carefully.

If you prefer, you can melt the cheese directly on the patty (as above) so no extra action is needed here. Place the toasted bottom buns on a clean plate ready for assembly.

Slice the 1/2 tomato into 4 thin slices. Slice the 1/4 red onion into thin rings. Rinse and pat dry 2 leaves of iceberg lettuce.

Spread 1 tsp mayonnaise on the top bun (inner side). On the bottom bun, spread 1 tsp ketchup and 1 tsp mustard if desired.

Assemble each burger: place lettuce on the bottom bun, top with the cheese-topped patty, add tomato slices, a couple of red onion rings, and 2 dill pickle slices. Cap with the top bun and press gently to hold together.

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or preheat air-fryer to 400°F (200°C). Spread 12 oz frozen fries on a baking sheet in a single layer (or place in the air-fryer basket).

If using oven, bake fries for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through. For air-fryer, cook 12–16 minutes shaking basket once or twice. Cook until golden and crisp. Immediately toss with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp paprika, if using.

Fill two glasses with ice (about 1 cup total) and pour 2 cups of chilled soft drink or iced tea. Serve alongside the burger and fries.

Plate each toasted, assembled cheeseburger with a portion of the fries and the chilled drink. Serve immediately while the burger is hot and the cheese is melty.