Ingredients
1 lb (450g) Ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
½ tsp Kosher salt
¼ tsp Freshly ground black pepper
¼ tsp Garlic powder
¼ tsp Onion powder
4 slices American or Cheddar cheese
4 Hamburger buns
4 Lettuce leaves
1 medium Tomato, sliced
¼ cup Red onion, thinly sliced
¼ cup Pickles, sliced
Ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise (for serving)
1 tbsp Butter (for toasting buns)
Instructions
1. Prep: Mix beef with spices gently. Form into 4 patties (¾-inch thick) and press a small dimple in the center of each.
2. Sear: Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Cook patties for 3-5 minutes per side for medium-well.
3. Melt: Add cheese to each patty during the last minute of cooking; cover the pan briefly to melt.
4. Toast: Spread butter on bun cut-sides and toast in the pan until golden.
5. Assemble: Spread condiments on buns. Layer lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and the cheesy patty. Serve immediately.
Notes
Pro-Tips:
• Use 80/20 ground beef for the juiciest results; leaner beef can result in dry, crumbly burgers.
• Press a dimple in the center of each raw patty to prevent them from puffing up into a ball while cooking.
• Don’t press down on the patties with your spatula while cooking; you will lose all the delicious, flavorful juices.
Variations:
• Spicy: Use pepper jack cheese and add a dash of hot sauce or chipotle aioli.
• Gourmet: Top with sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or a fried egg for extra richness.
• Low-Carb: Serve the burger wrapped in large lettuce leaves instead of a bun.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Pan-Sear
- Cuisine: American