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 vegetable oil
  • 4 brioche or sesame seed buns
  • 4 slices sharp cheddar or American cheese
  • 1 large beefsteak tomato, sliced
  • 4 leaves butter lettuce
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 4 tbsp mayonnaise or burger sauce

Instructions:

  1. Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and gently shape them into discs approximately 3/4 inch thick, avoiding overworking the meat.
  2. Press a shallow indentation into the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent puffing during cooking.
  3. Generously season both sides of the patties with salt and pepper immediately before grilling.
  4. Preheat the grill to medium-high and create a two-zone setup with a direct heat zone and an indirect heat zone.
  5. Brush the grill grates with vegetable oil and sear patties over direct heat for 3-4 minutes per side until a deep brown crust forms.
  6. Place a slice of cheese on each patty after flipping, then move burgers to the indirect heat zone and close the lid for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted.
  7. Place buns cut-side down on the grill for 30-60 seconds until golden brown.
  8. Assemble by spreading mayonnaise on the bottom bun, layering lettuce, the cheesy patty, tomato, and onion.
  9. Let the burgers rest for 2 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.