Place the 0.25 lb ground beef in a small bowl. Gently mix in 1 tsp salt, 0.25 tsp black pepper, and 0.125 tsp onion powder until just combined — do not overwork. Divide into one small patty about 3–3.5 inches wide and 1/2 inch thick. Make a shallow dimple in the center with your thumb to prevent puffing.

Toast buns

Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Butter the cut sides of the bun with 0.5 tbs softened butter. Place buns butter-side down in the skillet for 30–45 seconds or until golden. Remove and set aside.

Cook patty

Increase heat to medium-high. Add the patty to the dry hot skillet (no extra oil needed for 80/20). Cook 2.5–3 minutes on the first side without moving, until a brown crust forms. Flip and cook 2–2.5 minutes for a kid-friendly medium-well (internal temp ~155°F/68°C). During the last 30 seconds, place 1 slice of American cheese on top and cover the skillet briefly to melt the cheese.

Assemble

Place the cheeseburger patty on the bottom bun. Spread 1 tbs ketchup and 0.5 tsp mustard (optional) on the top bun, then close. Add 2 pickle slices on the side or inside per preference.

Crispy fries

Prepare potato

Wash and peel the 0.5 russet potato. Cut into kid-sized matchsticks about 1/4 inch thick and 2 inches long. Rinse the cut fries in cold water for 30 seconds to remove surface starch, then pat completely dry with paper towels (important for crispness).

Pan-fry fries

In a medium skillet, add 0.25 cups vegetable oil and heat over medium-high until shimmering (~350°F or when a small piece of potato sizzles). Add the dried potato sticks in a single layer (work in a single small batch so fries are not crowded). Cook, stirring occasionally and turning, 6–8 minutes until golden and crisp. If oil smokes, reduce heat slightly. Remove fries to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Season

While still hot, sprinkle 0.25 tsp salt and 0.125 tsp paprika evenly over the fries and toss gently to coat.

Serve

Plate the assembled kids cheeseburger with the crispy fries. Serve with 2 tbs ketchup for dipping and pickles on the side. Allow to cool slightly before serving to a child.