Classic Cheeseburger

A juicy, griddle-seared ground beef patty melted with sharp cheddar, layered on a toasted brioche bun with crisp lettuce, tomato, onion, and a tangy special sauce. Simple, classic, and endlessly satisfying — the quintessential American burger.

By YumYum Editorial · American Comfort

Prep: 15 min · Cook: 15 min · Total: 30 min · Serves 4

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (80/20)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
• 4 brioche burger buns
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 4 leaves butter lettuce
• 1 large tomato, sliced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 4 dill pickle slices, plus more to taste
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 teaspoon sweet pickle relish

Instructions

1. Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and gently shape into patties slightly wider than the buns, pressing a shallow dimple in the center of each to prevent puffing.
2. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper just before cooking.
3. Whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and pickle relish to make the special sauce; set aside.
4. Butter the cut sides of the buns and toast in a hot skillet, cut-side down, for 1-2 minutes until golden. Set aside.
5. Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until very hot. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes on the first side without pressing down.
6. Flip the patties, immediately top each with a slice of cheddar, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
7. Spread the special sauce on both toasted bun halves.
8. Layer the bottom bun with lettuce, the cheeseburger patty, tomato, onion, and pickles, then close with the top bun and serve immediately.