Cheese Burger Recipe

Slice and prepare

Slice the tomato into 4 even 1/4-inch thick rounds. Peel and slice the red onion into thin 1/8-inch rings; separate into rings. Tear or trim 4 large leaves of green leaf lettuce and pat dry.

If using bacon, cook 8 strips in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, about 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Keep warm.

Split the kaiser rolls horizontally. Spread butter lightly on cut sides if toasting and set aside.

Divide 1 lb ground Angus into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Gently form each portion into a round patty about 3.5 inches in diameter and about 3/4-inch thick. Make a slight shallow indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to reduce doming while cooking.

Season both sides of each patty with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Lightly brush or rub 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce across the top of the patties for extra flavor.

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until hot. Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and swirl to coat. Place patties in the skillet leaving space between them. Cook without moving for 3–4 minutes until a brown crust forms.

Flip the patties and cook 2–3 minutes on the second side for medium doneness. Place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty immediately after flipping or during the final 1–2 minutes of cooking. If you prefer, cover the pan for 30–60 seconds to help cheese melt.

Remove cooked patties to a plate and tent with foil to rest for 2–3 minutes.

While patties rest, place buttered cut sides of kaiser rolls on the hot skillet or griddle for 30–60 seconds until golden and lightly toasted. Remove and keep warm.

Spread 1 tablespoon mayonnaise on the bottom half of each toasted roll and 1/2 tablespoon yellow mustard on the top half (adjust to taste).

On each bottom bun, place 1 lettuce leaf, then 1 cheddar-topped burger patty. Top the patty with a tomato slice and a few rings of red onion. Add two slices of cooked bacon per burger if using (optional) and pickles if desired.

Finish by placing the top bun over the stack. Serve immediately with fries or your preferred side.