Western Burger Recipe

Form and season patties

Divide ground beef into two equal portions (about 8 oz each). Gently form into 3/4-inch thick patties, making a shallow dimple in the center of each with your thumb. Season both sides evenly with kosher salt (1/2 tsp per side total) and 1/4 tsp black pepper per patty.

Cook patties

Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. When oil shimmers, add patties and cook without moving for 3-4 minutes until a brown crust forms. Flip and cook 2-3 minutes more for medium (adjust time for desired doneness). In the last 30-45 seconds of cooking, place a slice of cheddar on each patty and cover the pan briefly to melt.

Toast buns

While patties cook, spread softened butter on cut sides of brioche buns. After removing patties, lower heat to medium-low and return pan to heat. Toast buns cut-side down 30-60 seconds until golden; set aside.

Sauté veggies

In a small skillet, heat 1 teaspoon olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion (1/2 cup) and green pepper (1/4 cup) and sauté 3-4 minutes until softened. Add sliced mushrooms (1/4 cup) and cook another 2 minutes.

Make Western sauce

To the skillet with vegetables, add 2 tablespoons ketchup, 1 teaspoon brown sugar, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Stir and simmer 1-2 minutes until sauce is glossy and slightly thickened. Remove from heat and keep warm.

On the bottom bun, place lettuce leaf (optional) and the cheddar-topped patty. Spoon a generous portion of the warm Western topping over the cheese. Add pickles if using, smear mustard on the top bun if desired, and close the burger. Repeat for second burger.

Bake or cook fries

Preheat oven and follow package instructions for 12 oz frozen shoestring fries (typically 425°F/220°C). Spread fries in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake 12-18 minutes, turning once, until crisp and golden.

Season fries

Immediately after baking, toss fries with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon paprika. Serve alongside burger.

Pour chilled cola into two glasses filled with ice (if desired). Serve with the burger and fries.

Plate each burger with half the fries and one glass of drink. Total meal serves 2.