Banquet Burger Recipe

Form patties

Place the ground beef in a bowl. Add kosher salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Gently mix with your hands until combined — avoid overmixing. Divide into four equal portions (about 5 oz each) and form into patties about 3/4 inch thick, making a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent doming while cooking.

Cook patties

Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. When the pan is hot and shimmering, add the patties (do not overcrowd; cook in two batches if needed). Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side without moving to develop a crust. Flip and cook 2-3 minutes on the second side for medium; adjust time for desired doneness. During the last 1 minute of cooking, proceed to add cheese (see Cheese step). Transfer cooked patties to a plate and tent loosely with foil to rest for 3-5 minutes.

Cook bacon

While the patties are resting or in a separate skillet, arrange bacon strips in a cold skillet, then set over medium heat. Cook, turning occasionally, until crisp and browned, about 8–10 minutes depending on thickness. Drain on paper towels. For faster cooking, you may bake bacon on a rimmed baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes until crisp.

Melt cheese

When the burgers are in their last minute of cooking, place one slice of cheddar cheese on each patty. If you want extra melt, cover the skillet with a lid for 30–60 seconds to trap steam and fully melt the cheese.

Toast buns

Spread softened butter evenly on the cut sides of the buns. Place bun halves, buttered-side down, in a clean skillet over medium heat or on a griddle and toast until golden, 1–2 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Assemble burgers

Spread sauce (optional) on the bottom bun. Place lettuce and tomato (if using) on the bottom bun, add the cheeseburger patty, then top with two bacon strips per burger, onion slices and pickles as desired. Cap with the toasted top bun.

Make sauce

Whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard and hot sauce in a small bowl until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning. Use immediately or refrigerate up to 3 days.