Classic Cheeseburger

Juicy seasoned beef patties topped with melted cheddar, crisp lettuce, ripe tomato, onion, and pickles on toasted buns.

Prep: 15 min · Cook: 10 min · Yield: 4 · Method: Stovetop

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds ground beef
• 4 burger buns
• 4 slices cheddar cheese
• 4 leaves lettuce
• 1 medium tomato
• 0.5 medium yellow onion
• 12 slices dill pickles
• 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Cooking instructions

1. Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and gently shape each into a patty about 3/4 inch thick. Press a shallow indentation in the center of each patty, then season both sides with the salt and pepper. (about 5 min)
2. Slice the tomato and onion, separate the lettuce leaves, and set out the pickles. Split the buns. (about 5 min)
3. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the patties in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, without pressing, until browned on the bottom. (about 4 min) — Medium-high heat
4. Flip the patties and cook for 2 to 4 minutes more. Place a cheese slice on each patty during the last minute and cover the skillet briefly to melt it. Cook until the centers reach 160°F on an instant-read thermometer. (about 4 min) — Medium-high heat
5. Remove the patties and let them rest for 2 minutes. Toast the cut sides of the buns in the skillet for 30 to 60 seconds, until lightly golden. (about 1 min) — Medium heat
6. Build each burger with lettuce, a cheeseburger patty, tomato, onion, and pickles between the toasted bun halves. Serve immediately. (about 2 min)