Description
Experience the gold standard of burgers with this restaurant-quality recipe. By utilizing an 80/20 meat-to-fat ratio and a high-heat cast-iron searing technique, you achieve a crusty, umami-rich exterior with a perfectly succulent center. Topped with melty American cheese on a toasted, buttered brioche bun, this classic comfort food is designed to satisfy cravings for the perfect, juicy bite every single time.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs Ground Beef (80/20)
4 slices American Cheese
4 Brioche Buns
1 tsp Kosher Salt
0.5 tsp Black Pepper
1 tbsp Vegetable Oil
Instructions
Divide the ground beef into four equal 6-ounce portions and shape into patties slightly wider than the buns.
Use your thumb to create a shallow indentation in the center of each patty to prevent doming.
Refrigerate the patties for 20 minutes to keep the fat cold.
Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it begins to smoke slightly, then add the vegetable oil.
Season the patties with salt and pepper immediately before placing them into the skillet, seasoned side down.
Cook for 3 to 4 minutes without moving to develop a deep, dark brown sear.
Flip the patties, cook for another 3 minutes, top with cheese, and let rest for two minutes before serving.
Notes
Always ensure the ground beef is chilled before shaping to maintain the desired fat structure. Resting the meat after cooking is non-negotiable for ensuring juices redistribute. For extra flavor, toast the brioche buns with a little butter in the skillet after removing the patties.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: recipes
- Method: Pan Searing
- Cuisine: American