Hamburger, 6 Oz. Sesame Seed Bun Recipe

Form patties

Divide the ground beef into four equal portions (about 6 oz each). Lightly shape each portion into a round patty about 3/4 to 1 inch thick, creating a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent doming while cooking.

Season both sides of each patty with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Sprinkle about 1/4 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper per patty (adjust to taste).

Brush or rub a small amount of vegetable oil on both sides of each patty or on the cooking surface to prevent sticking. If using Worcestershire sauce, lightly brush or mix 1 tsp into the beef before forming patties for extra flavor.

Cook patties (pan or grill)

Preheat a heavy skillet or grill over medium-high heat for 4–5 minutes until very hot. For stovetop: add 1 tbs oil to the skillet and heat until shimmering. Place patties indentation-side up and cook without pressing. For a 6 oz patty about 3/4–1" thick, cook 3–4 minutes per side for medium (internal temp ~145–150°F/63–66°C). Adjust time: 4–5 minutes per side for medium-well. Flip once using a spatula.

Add cheese: During the last 1 minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar on each patty and cover the skillet or close the grill lid to melt the cheese, about 30–60 seconds.

Remove patties from heat and let rest on a plate for 2–3 minutes. Resting helps juices redistribute and prevents bun sogginess.

Toast buns

While patties rest (or in a separate pan), split the sesame buns and lightly butter the cut sides with softened butter. Place cut-side down in a dry skillet or on the grill over medium heat for 1–2 minutes until golden and lightly crisp. Watch closely to avoid burning.

Prepare toppings

Slice the tomato into 4 even slices. Separate 4 lettuce leaves and drain pickle slices if packed in brine. Arrange onion slices so each burger gets a few rings. Portion ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise so each bun gets about 1 tsp of each (or to taste).

Assemble burgers: On the bottom half of each toasted bun, spread mayonnaise (or desired sauce), add a lettuce leaf, a slice of tomato, then the cheeseburger patty. Add 2 pickle slices and a few rings of red onion on top of the patty. Spread ketchup and mustard on the top bun and close the burger.

Serve immediately with your choice of sides (fries, chips, or salad).