A juicy, perfectly seasoned beef patty topped with melted cheese, crisp lettuce, ripe tomato, and tangy pickles, all nestled in a soft toasted bun. This recipe delivers the quintessential backyard burger experience.
15 min prep
10 min cook
4 servings
650 kcal/serving
Ingredients
1.5 lbs (680g) ground beef (80/20)
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
4 slices American cheese
4 hamburger buns, split
4 leaves lettuce
4 slices tomato
4 slices red onion
8 slices dill pickle
Ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise (to taste)
Instructions
Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 6 oz each). Shape into patties slightly larger than the buns, about 3/4-inch thick. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to prevent puffing.
Season both sides of patties with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Heat a grill or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Cook patties for 4 minutes on the first side, then flip. Immediately place a slice of cheese on each patty. Cook for another 3-4 minutes for medium doneness (internal temp 160°F/71°C).
During the last 2 minutes of cooking, toast the buns cut-side down on the grill or in a separate pan until lightly golden.
Assemble burgers: spread desired condiments on bun bottoms. Add lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles. Place patty with cheese on top, then cover with bun top.
Serve immediately.
Tips
For best results, use 80/20 ground beef; leaner meat yields drier burgers.
Let patties rest for 5 minutes after cooking to redistribute juices.