Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tbsp neutral oil
  • 4 burger buns
  • 4 slices sharp cheddar or American cheese
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

Instructions:

  1. Divide the ground beef into four equal portions (approximately 6 oz each) and gently shape them into disks roughly 1 inch thick. Use your thumb to create a shallow dimple in the center of each patty. Place on a baking sheet and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
  2. Heat a cast iron skillet or heavy stainless steel pan over medium-high heat with neutral oil until it begins to shimmer and barely smoke.
  3. Season both sides of the cold patties generously with salt and pepper. Place patties in the pan and press down firmly for 5 seconds to ensure maximum surface contact.
  4. Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until a deep brown crust forms, then flip the burgers.
  5. Immediately place a slice of cheese on each patty and cover the pan with a lid for 1-2 minutes to melt the cheese.
  6. While the burgers rest, swipe the buns with softened butter and toast them in the same pan until golden brown.