08/21/2026
This stunning burger recipe is the perfect for a last hurrah of summer!
The Secret Sauce
3 tbsp Mayo
1 tbsp Ketchup
1 tsp Yellow mustard
1 tsp Sweet pickle relish
½ tsp Garlic powder
Splash of pickle juice
The Burger Build
1 lb Ground chuck (80/20 blend – non-negotiable!)
4 Brioche buns, buttered
8 Slices American cheese
Thinly sliced dill pickles & shredded lettuce
Salt & coarse black pepper
How to Make It
1. Prep the beef: Divide beef into 2 oz loose balls. Keep them ice-cold until the pan is hot.
2. Toast the buns: Butter and toast brioche halves in a cast-iron skillet until golden. Set aside.
3. The Smash: Crank the skillet to high heat. Place beef balls on the dry, screaming-hot pan. Use parchment paper and a heavy spatula to press them down wafer-thin.
4. Season & Sear: Season heavily with salt and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes undisturbed until the edges are dark, caramelized, and crispy.
5. Flip & Melt: Scrape up under the crust, flip, and immediately slap a slice of American cheese on each patty. Cook for 1 more minute.
6. Stack & Serve: Bottom bun ➡️ sauce ➡️ pickles ➡️ double patty stack ➡️ shredded lettuce ➡️ top bun with extra sauce.