Ingredients:

  • 8 oz (225g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 brioche buns
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) ketchup
  • 1 tsp (5ml) yellow mustard
  • 1/2 tsp (2.5ml) sweet pickle relish
  • Pinch of garlic powder
  • 2 slices American cheese
  • 1/4 cup (30g) finely diced white onion
  • Dill pickle slices
  • Shredded lettuce (optional)
  • Sliced tomato (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, relish, and garlic powder. Set aside for special sauce.
  2. Gently divide the ground beef into two equal portions (4 oz/112.5g each). Form each portion into a loose ball.
  3. Brush the cut sides of the brioche buns with melted butter. Toast in a dry skillet or on a griddle until golden brown. Set aside.
  4. Place a cast iron skillet or griddle over high heat until screaming hot. Place a ball of beef on the hot surface. Cover with parchment paper. Using a burger press or spatula, aggressively smash the beef down to about 1/4 inch thick.
  5. Immediately season the smashed patty with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until a deep, dark crust forms.
  6. Use the metal spatula to scrape the burger from the surface. Flip the patty and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
  7. Top each patty with a slice of cheese and cook until melted. Add water to the skillet, cover, and steam if needed.
  8. Spread the special sauce on the toasted bun bottoms. Top with the cheeseburger patty, diced onions, pickles, lettuce, and tomato. Place the top bun on and serve immediately.