Hamburger

Quick Summary: A classic American cheeseburger — well-seasoned 80/20 beef patties with a deep seared crust, melted cheese, and toasted buttered buns.
Source: Traditional

>> servings: 4
Divide the @ground beef{680%g} into 4 equal portions and gently form each into a patty slightly wider than the buns. Press a shallow dimple into the center of each so they cook flat.
 
Season both sides of the patties generously with @salt{} and @black pepper{}.
 
Heat a #cast iron skillet{} or #griddle{} over medium-high heat until very hot, then add @neutral oil{1%tbsp}.
 
Lay the patties in the pan and cook undisturbed for ~timer{3%minutes}, until a deep brown crust forms.
 
Flip the patties, top each with a slice of @American cheese{4}, and cook a further ~timer{2%minutes} for medium. For a faster melt, add a splash of @water{} to the pan and cover.
 
Spread @butter{14%g} on the cut sides of the @hamburger buns{4} and toast them in the pan until golden.
 
Spread @mayonnaise{} and @ketchup{} on the toasted buns. Layer on @lettuce{}, sliced @tomato{1}, the cheeseburger patty, @onion{} slices, and @pickles{}.
 
Close the burgers and serve immediately.