Classic Cheeseburger for Two
Juicy homemade burgers with melty cheddar and fresh toppings, made just right for a cosy meal for two.
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb ground chuck beef (80/20)
- fine sea salt to taste
- freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 burger buns
- 2 slices medium cheddar cheese (thick sliced)
- 1 large tomato sliced into 4 rings
- 4 leaves green leaf lettuce
- 1/2 medium red onion thinly sliced into rings
- 1/2 cup dill pickle slices
Instructions
- Get all your toppings and sauces ready by slicing the tomato, red onion, and lettuce, and setting aside the pickles. This prep work makes assembling your burgers a breeze later on.
- Slice the two burger buns in half. Spread the cut sides with softened or melted butter, then toast them on a skillet or grill until they turn a beautiful golden brown. You can do this ahead of time or in the last few minutes of cooking your burgers—it adds a great crunch and helps prevent sogginess.
- Preheat your pan to medium heat. Divide ½ lb of ground chuck into 2 even portions and form each into a patty about ½ inch thick and roughly 1 inch wider than the buns, or use a burger press like this one if you want them perfectly uniform. Season each side generously with fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Place the patties on in the preheated pan, keeping the presentation side up (the side you want facing up when served). Cook for about 3 to 5 minutes on the first side until you see juices start to form and a good sear develops. Flip the burgers and cook for another 3 to 5 minutes on the other side, flip using a fish spatula like this — it slides right under without breaking the patties. In the final minute or two, place a slice of cheddar on each patty and cover with a melting dome like this one — it helps the cheese melt evenly and quickly.
- Once your burgers are done, place each patty onto a toasted bun. Top with tomato slices, lettuce, red onion rings, and pickle slices, along with any sauces you love. Serve right away and enjoy your classic cheeseburger crafted perfectly for two.