Classic American Cheeseburger

1.Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.

2.Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and gently shape each into a 4-inch diameter patty about 3/4 inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent puffing during cooking.

3.Season both sides of each patty generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

4.Brush the grill or skillet with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.

5.Place the patties on the hot grill or skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on the first side without pressing down, until the bottom forms a nice brown crust.

6.Flip the patties and cook for another 3 minutes on the second side.

7.Place one slice of American cheese on each patty during the last minute of cooking. Cover the grill or pan with a lid or foil to help the cheese melt evenly.

8.While the patties cook, slice the tomato and shred the lettuce. Thinly slice the onion if using.

9.Split the hamburger buns and lightly butter the cut sides.

10.Toast the buns on a separate pan or on the grill until golden brown and crisp, about 1-2 minutes.

11.Remove the patties from the heat and let rest for a minute.

12.Spread mayonnaise on the bottom half of each toasted bun, then add a layer of shredded lettuce.

13.Place the cheeseburger patty on top of the lettuce.

14.Add a slice of tomato, two pickle slices, and onion slices if desired.

15.Spread yellow mustard and ketchup on the top half of each bun.

16.Close the burger with the top bun and serve immediately.