Cheeseburger Recipe

Form patties

Divide the 1 lb ground beef into two equal portions (about 8 ounces each). Gently form each portion into a round patty about 3/4-inch thick and slightly wider than the bun. Avoid overworking the meat to keep patties tender.

Season patties

Lightly press a shallow indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb (this helps prevent doming). Brush each side with 1/2 teaspoon vegetable oil. Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly on both sides and brush or rub 1/4 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce onto each patty surface.

Cook patties

Preheat a cast-iron skillet or grill over medium-high heat until hot (about 3–5 minutes). Place patties on the hot surface and cook for 3–4 minutes without moving, until a brown crust forms. Flip and cook the second side 2–3 minutes for medium (internal temperature about 145–150°F / 63–66°C). For a cheeseburger, during the last 30–45 seconds of cooking place one American cheese slice on each patty and cover the pan or close the grill lid to melt the cheese.

Rest patties

Transfer patties to a plate and let rest for 2 minutes to redistribute juices while you prepare buns and sides.

Toast buns

Split the brioche buns and spread 1/2 tablespoon softened butter across the cut sides (about 1/2 tbs per bun half). Toast buttered cut sides in a skillet over medium heat for 1–2 minutes until golden and slightly crisp, or toast under a broiler for 30–60 seconds watching closely.

Assemble cheeseburger

On the bottom bun place leaf lettuce, then the cheese-topped patty, followed by tomato slices, red onion rings and dill pickle slices as desired. Spread ketchup, mustard and/or mayonnaise on the top bun (or on the bottom bun, per preference). Close with the top bun and press lightly to set.

French fries (if chosen)

If using frozen fries, cook according to package directions (bake or air fry) until crisp, about 15–25 minutes depending on method. If making homemade fries, cut potatoes into sticks, toss with 1 tbs oil and a pinch of salt, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes turning once, until golden and crisp. Season to taste.

Side salad (if chosen)

Toss mixed greens with a light vinaigrette (1 tbs olive oil + 1/2 tbs vinegar + pinch salt & pepper) and serve chilled alongside the burger.

Place the assembled cheeseburger on a plate with your chosen side. Serve immediately while hot. Offer extra condiments at the table.