Westend Burger Recipe

Form patties

Divide the ground beef into two equal portions (about 8 ounces each). Gently form each portion into a round patty about 3/4 inch thick, slightly wider than the buns. Do not overwork the meat. Make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to help keep it from puffing while cooking.

Prep produce and condiments

Season tomato slices lightly with a pinch of salt. Rinse and dry lettuce leaves. Split buns and spread softened butter on cut sides. Combine or place ketchup and mayonnaise separately for spreading at assembly. If using pickles or onions, have them sliced and ready.

In a medium skillet over medium heat, add the bacon strips and cook until crisp to your liking, about 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally. Transfer bacon to a paper towel–lined plate to drain. Keep skillet fat for optional use or discard excess leaving about 1 tsp.

Heat a griddle or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and spread. When shimmering, place the burger patties on the hot surface. Season the top of each patty with about 1/2 tsp kosher salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper (adjust to taste).

Cook the patties until a brown crust forms, about 3–4 minutes. Flip and cook the second side 3–4 minutes for medium (adjust time if you prefer rarer or more well-done). During the last 1 minute of cooking, place one slice of American cheese on each patty and cover loosely with a lid or a metal bowl to melt cheese quickly (or place patties under a broiler for a few seconds if using a flat top).

While the patties finish, toast the buttered cut sides of the buns face down in a separate skillet or on the griddle until golden, about 1–2 minutes. Remove buns and set aside.

Spread about 1 tablespoon mayonnaise on the bottom half of each toasted bun and 1 tablespoon ketchup on the top half (adjust to taste).

Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom bun, then the cheese-topped burger patty. Lay two strips of cooked bacon over the patty, then add 2–3 tomato slices (or one thick slice) and optional onion and pickles if using.

Cover with the top bun, press gently to hold, and serve immediately while hot.

Serve the WestEnd Burger with fries, chips, or a side salad. Cook to order: adjust internal temperature as desired (120–125°F rare, 130–135°F medium-rare, 140–145°F medium, 155°F+ well-done).