Ingredients:

1 pound (450g) ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat)

Salt and pepper, to taste

4 burger buns

Lettuce leaves

Sliced tomatoes

Sliced onions

Cheese slices (optional)

Ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise (optional)

Olive oil (for cooking)

Instructions:

1. Prep the Ingredients:

Start by preheating your grill or stovetop pan over medium-high heat.

While the grill or pan is heating up, prepare the other ingredients. Wash and dry the lettuce leaves and slice the tomatoes and onions. If using cheese, have cheese slices ready as well.

2. Shape the Patties:

Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and gently shape them into round patties. Press the patties slightly in the center to create a slight indentation. This helps the patties cook more evenly and maintain their shape as they shrink during cooking.

Season both sides of each patty with salt and pepper.

3. Cook the Patties:

Drizzle a bit of olive oil on the grill or pan to prevent sticking. Place the patties on the grill or pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until your desired level of doneness is reached. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C), for medium, aim for 140-145°F (60-63°C), and for well-done, aim for 160°F (71°C).

4. Add Cheese (Optional):

If you're using cheese slices, place them on top of the patties during the last minute of cooking. Cover the grill or pan with a lid to help the cheese melt.

5. Toast the Buns:

While the patties are cooking, you can toast the burger buns. Place the buns, cut-side down, on the grill or in a toaster until they're lightly toasted.

6. Assemble the Burgers:

Once the patties are cooked and the cheese (if using) is melted, it's time to assemble the burgers.

Spread ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise (if desired) on the bottom half of each toasted bun.

Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom bun, followed by a cooked patty (with or without melted cheese), sliced tomato, and sliced onion.

Complete the Burgers:

Place the top half of the toasted bun over the toppings to complete the burger.

Serve and enjoy!

Burgers are very customizable with various combinations of rich flavors, The classic burger is the foundation so experiment and enjoy !