Homemade Hamburgers

做法

1. 1

   Form the patties

   Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 6 oz each). Gently form each into a round patty about 3/4 inch thick. Press a shallow dimple into the center of each patty with your thumb — this stops them from puffing up during cooking. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Do not overwork the meat.

2. 2

   Heat the pan or grill

   Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over high heat for 2 minutes until very hot. You want a hard sear, so don't add oil — the fat in the beef will do the work. If using an outdoor grill, preheat to high and lightly oil the grates.

3. 3

   Cook the patties

   Place patties in the pan and press lightly with a spatula once to ensure full contact. Cook without moving for 3-4 minutes until a deep brown crust forms on the bottom. Flip once and cook another 2-3 minutes for medium (pink center) or 4 minutes for well done.

4. 4

   Melt the cheese

   In the last 60 seconds of cooking, lay a slice of cheese over each patty. Cover the pan with a lid or foil for 30-60 seconds until the cheese is fully melted and draped over the edges.

5. 5

   Toast the buns

   Melt butter in a separate skillet over medium heat. Place buns cut-side down and toast for 1-2 minutes until golden and lightly crisp. Watch closely — they brown fast.

6. 6

   Assemble and serve

   Spread ketchup and mustard on the toasted buns. Place lettuce on the bottom bun, then the cheesy patty, then a tomato slice. Add the top bun and serve immediately while the patty is still hot and the cheese is melty.