Description

People new to cooking or even experienced cooks may need a little help or tips on how to make the best burgers at home on the stovetop.

Ingredients

• 1 lb. ground chuck 80%-85% lean
• kosher or sea salt, to taste
• freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 4 slices American or Cheddar Cheese
• 4 hamburger buns, toasted
• Topping choices: ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, lettuce, tomatoes, onion, pickles

Steps

1. Place ground chuck in a medium bowl; season with salt and pepper; mix gently to combine, but don’t overwork the meat. Divide the meat into 4 equal portions.
2. Place each portion on a platter; gently press them into a 1" round patty. It should NOT be smooth, but leave some craggy edges and don’t press them too flat.
3. Use your thumb or fingers to press a “moat”, about ¼-½" from the edges, around the circumference of the burgers, making sure the edges of the burgers are a little higher than the indentation. This ensures the burgers will flatten out while cooking.