CLASSIC BURGER-JOINT CHEESEBURGER

Classic Burger-Joint Cheeseburger image

Provided by Martha Stewart

Time 25m

Yield Makes 4

Number Of Ingredients 9

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1 pound ground beef (85 percent lean), preferably grass-fed
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
Mayonnaise, for grilling buns and for serving
4 seeded hamburger buns, such as Big Marty's
4 slices American cheese
1 beefsteak tomato, sliced into 1/4-inch-thick rounds
Dill pickle slices, for serving
Shredded iceberg lettuce, for serving
Ketchup or other desired condiments, for serving

Steps:

Preheat grill for direct-heat cooking. Gently form beef into 4 patties, each 4 1/2 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick (do not overwork meat or patties will be tough). Season generously with salt and pepper. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise onto the cut sides of each bun.
Place patties on grill and cook, uncovered, until browned and sizzling on the bottom, 3 to 4 minutes. Flip, top each with a slice of cheese, cover grill, and cook until cheese is melted and patties are medium-rare, 2 to 3 minutes more. Transfer to a plate. Place buns on grill cut-side down; cook just until lightly toasted and golden brown in places, about 1 minute.
Dress the cut side of each bottom bun with ketchup and mayonnaise (or desired condiments), then top with patties. Place a tomato slice on top of each patty and season with salt. Stack with pickles and lettuce. Dress cut side of top buns with condiments, then sandwich toppings and serve.