Ingredients:

  • 1 kg (2.2 lbs) ground beef (80/20 blend preferred), chilled
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced (about 1 cup / 150g)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tsp / 6g)
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten (approx. 50g)
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (30ml)
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (15ml)
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika (8g)
  • 1 tsp onion powder (2g)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder (1g)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste (approx. 1 tsp / 5g salt, 1/2 tsp / 2g pepper)
  • 4 brioche burger buns (or your favorite burger buns)
  • 4 slices cheddar cheese (or your cheese of choice)
  • 1 large tomato, sliced
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 4 lettuce leaves (e.g., romaine or butter lettuce)
  • Pickles, sliced (optional)
  • Your favourite burger sauce (ketchup, mustard, mayo, burger sauce, whatever floats your boat!)

Instructions:

  1. Gently combine ground beef, diced onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Don't overmix; you want a tender patty!
  2. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Gently shape each portion into a patty, about 1 inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from bulging during cooking.
  3. Cover the patties with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape while cooking.
  4. While the patties are chilling, prepare your toppings: slice the tomatoes and red onion, wash the lettuce, etc. Lightly toast the burger buns (optional, but recommended).
  5. Heat a grill pan or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat (or preheat your outdoor grill). Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer to your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the patties reach a safe internal temperature (160°F/71°C for ground beef).
  6. In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty and let it melt slightly.
  7. Spread your favorite sauce on the bottom bun. Layer lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickles (if using), and the cheeseburger patty. Top with the other half of the bun.
  8. Enjoy your Proper Burger!