Classic All-American Cheeseburger

Serves 4 · 15 min prep · 12 min cook

Ingredients

• 1.5 lb ground beef (80/20)
• 1.5 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 0.5 tsp garlic powder
• 4 hamburger buns
• 4 American cheese slices
• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 iceberg lettuce leaves
• 1 large ripe tomato
• 0.5 red onion
• 16 dill pickle chips
• 0.25 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp yellow mustard
• 2 tbsp ketchup

Instructions

1. 1Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and gently form into loose patties slightly wider than the buns; press a shallow dimple in the center of each so they cook flat. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder just before cooking.
2. 2Heat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until very hot, about 400°F surface temperature. Add a thin film of butter and swirl to coat.
3. 3Place the patties in the hot pan without crowding and sear undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes until a deep brown crust forms and juices begin to bead on top.
4. 4Flip once, top each patty immediately with a slice of American cheese, and cook another 2 to 3 minutes for medium doneness; the cheese should fully melt and drape over the edges.
5. 5While the burgers finish, split the buns and toast the cut sides in the same pan or a toaster until golden and lightly crisp.
6. 6Spread mayonnaise on the bottom buns, then layer a leaf of crisp lettuce, two thick tomato slices, a few rings of red onion, and four pickle chips.
7. 7Stir mustard and ketchup together for a quick sauce and spoon a little over the pickles.
8. 8Transfer each cheesy patty onto the dressed bottom bun, crown with the top bun, and serve immediately while the cheese is still stretchy and the bun warm.