How to Make a Burger on the Stove

1 . Stage

Prepare the optional burger seasoning mix: Before you start cooking, prepare the seasoning mix. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Set aside.

2 . Stage

Make the sauce: In another small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, mustard, and ketchup together until smooth. Set aside.

3 . Stage

Form the burgers: Preheat a large sturdy skillet (cast iron is best) over medium heat.  Loosely divide the ground beef into three 1/3-pound patties. Shape into discs about 1/2 inch thick and put a divot in the center of each patty to prevent swelling in the center. Season the patties with 1/2 teaspoon of seasoning mix per side of the patty, if using.

4 . Stage

Cook the burgers: Turn on the fan over the stove and open a window to help with air flow.  Spray your skillet with a little non-stick spray and place burgers in the skillet. Press down on each patty with a spatula for 10 seconds. This is to encourage browning.  Cook the burgers over medium heat for 4 minutes. Don’t touch them too much so you get a nice crust on the first side. Use a sturdy metal spatula to flip the burgers, being sure to scrape up any caramelization with the burger.

5 . Stage

Flip the burgers: After you flip the burgers, add the cheese, if using, and continue to cook for 3 minutes until the burger is cooked to desired doneness, usually medium.  If you are only cooking one burger, you can toast your buns in the same skillet as your patty, or you can toast them separately if you are cooking multiple burgers at once. If you want the cheese to be very melted, cover the burgers with a lid for the last minute of cooking.

6 . Stage

Build the burgers and serve: Build your burgers by spreading some burger sauce on each bun. Put the burgers on the bottom bun and top with the lettuce, onions, tomatoes, and the top bun. Serve immediately with a cold drink. Did you love this recipe? Give us some stars below!