Ingredients
Meat
- 1 pound ground chuck (80%-85% lean)
Seasonings
- Kosher or sea salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Toppings and Condiments
- 4 slices American or Cheddar cheese
- 4 burger buns
- Condiments of choice such as ketchup, mustard, and mayo
- Toppings such as lettuce, tomato, red onion, and pickles
Instructions
- Mix: Place ground chuck in a medium-size mixing bowl. Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix gently to combine without overworking the meat to keep the burgers tender.
- Divide: Portion the meat mixture into four equal parts.
- Form Patties: Take one portion and press it gently on a plate to form a 1-inch thick round patty. Keep some irregular edges; avoid making it perfectly smooth or too flat.
- Shape Edge Moat: Using your thumb or fingers, press a “moat” about ¼ to ½ inch from the edge around the patty’s circumference. Ensure the edges are slightly higher than this indentation to prevent the burger from puffing up while cooking. Repeat for all patties.
- Heat Skillet: Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. No need to add oil to the pan.
- Cook Burgers: Place patties in the hot skillet with space between each. Cook until they are nicely seared and browned halfway up the sides, about 3-4 minutes.
- Flip and Finish Cooking: Flip the burgers and cook to desired doneness. For safety, cook burgers to an internal temperature of 160°F as recommended by the USDA.
- Add Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and place a slice of cheese on each burger. Cover the pan to let the residual heat melt the cheese.
- Serve: Place the burgers on toasted buns and add your favorite condiments and toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately for a delicious homemade stovetop burger experience.
Notes
- Do not overwork the ground beef to keep burgers tender and juicy.
- The moat or indentation prevents the burger from puffing up and helps it cook evenly.
- Cooking to 160°F ensures food safety by killing harmful bacteria in ground beef.
- Use a cast iron or heavy-bottom skillet for best sear results.
- Toast buns for extra flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American