The All-american Burger Recipe
Make The All-american Burger Recipe in just 35m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Burger Patties
Toppings & Assembly
Condiments
Method
Burger Patties
Forming the Patties
Divide the 1 lb ground beef into four equal portions (about 4 oz each). Gently form each portion into a 3.5–4 inch wide patty about 3/4 inch thick. Do not overwork the meat — handle just enough to shape. Make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to help them cook evenly.
Seasoning
Season both sides of each patty evenly with kosher salt (about 1 tsp total split among patties) and freshly ground black pepper. Lightly brush or sprinkle Worcestershire sauce over each patty (about 1 tsp total) to add savory depth.
Cooking
Heat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until very hot (about 3–5 minutes). Add 1 tbs vegetable oil and swirl to coat. Place patties on the hot surface leaving space between them. Cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes until a brown crust forms. Flip patties and immediately place an American cheese slice on each patty. Cook another 2–3 minutes for medium (adjust time 1–2 minutes more for medium-well). Remove patties to a warm plate and tent with foil to rest 3–5 minutes. If using bacon, cook bacon separately until crisp and keep warm; reserve 4 slices per burger.
Buns & Toppings
Prep Veggies
Slice the tomato into 1/2-inch rounds (use the whole tomato). Thinly slice 1/4 red onion into rings. Rinse and pat dry iceberg lettuce and shred or select whole leaves. Have dill pickle slices ready.
Assembly & Condiments
Spread 1 tsp mayonnaise on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Add a small handful (about 1/4 cup) of shredded lettuce on top of the mayo to create a moisture barrier.
Place the cheese-topped patty on the lettuce. Layer one or two strips of cooked bacon (1 per burger direction lists 4 total slices for 4 burgers), then add a tomato slice, a few rings of red onion to taste, and two dill pickle slices. Spread 1 tsp ketchup and 1 tsp yellow mustard on the top bun (adjust to taste). Close the burger and press gently.
Repeat for remaining burgers. Serve immediately while hot with fries or chips if desired.