Diner Burgers

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Place the beef on a parchment-lined rimmed baking sheet and divide it into 4 even piles. Without lifting the meat, gently shape it into 4 patties, each about ½ inch wider than the burger buns, pressing the meat together just enough to make the patties hold. Do not overwork them. Make a shallow indentation in the center of each patty to prevent bulging as they cook.

2. Step 2

   Season the top side generously with salt and pepper. Use a thin metal spatula to flip the patties and season the second side, then refrigerate until ready to cook.

3. Step 3

   Heat the oil or clarified butter on a griddle or in a large skillet over medium-high until shimmering. Use the spatula to carefully add the patties and cook, flipping occasionally, until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center registers 110 degrees Fahrenheit (43 degrees Celsius), about 5 minutes. Add cheese and continue cooking until the cheese is melted and the burgers reach 125 degrees Fahrenheit (52 degrees Celsius) for medium-rare or 135 degrees Fahrenheit (57 degrees Celsius) for medium — about 1 minute more.

4. Step 4

   While the burgers cook, dress the toasted buns however you like them. (For more stability, you can put mayo or a mayo-based sauce on the bottom and top bun, then place the toppings on the bottom bun.) Transfer the cooked burger patties to the buns. Close the burgers and serve.