Classic Cheeseburger

Ingredients

• 1½ lb ground beef (80/20)
• 4 cheddar cheese slices
• 4 hamburger buns
• 4 lettuce leaves
• 1 tomato
• ½ red onion (optional)
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 4 tbsp ketchup (optional)
• 4 tbsp mustard (optional)
• 4 slices pickles (optional)

Steps

1. Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions and gently form into patties, slightly larger than the buns. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Heat a large skillet or grill to medium-high heat. Cook patties for 3-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness.
3. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty to melt.
4. While patties cook, lightly toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a separate pan.
5. Assemble burgers: place a cooked patty with melted cheese on the bottom half of each bun. Add lettuce, tomato, and red onion if desired.
6. Top with ketchup, mustard, and pickles as desired, then cover with the top bun and serve immediately.