The PERFECT Cheeseburger w/ @andy_cooks

Ingredients

• 1 lb Chuck Steak (trimmed, cut into 1‑inch cubes)
• 0.5 lb Short Rib (well‑marbled, cut into 1‑inch cubes)
• 0.5 lb Sirloin Steak (trimmed, cut into 1‑inch cubes)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce (adds umami)
• 1.5 tsp Kosher Salt
• 0.5 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper
• 1 White Onion (thinly sliced for caramelizing)
• 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter (for caramelizing onions)
• 1 tsp Granulated Sugar (helps onions caramelize)
• 8 Dill Pickle Slices (thinly sliced)
• 4 Brioche Buns (split, toasted)
• 1 Large Egg (beaten with 1 tbsp water for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp Water (mixed with egg for wash)

Instructions

1. Prep the Meat

   Trim any excess fat from the chuck, short rib, and sirloin. Cut each piece into 1‑inch cubes and place on a tray. Chill the cubes in the freezer for 15 minutes so they are firm for grinding.

   Time: PT15M

2. Grind and Season

   Grind the chilled meat cubes through a medium‑coarse plate into a large mixing bowl. Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Gently mix with clean hands until just combined—do not overwork.

   Time: PT5M

3. Form Patties

   Divide the meat mixture into 4 equal portions (about 6‑oz each). Shape each into a loose ball, then flatten to a ¾‑inch thick patty, making a small indentation in the center to prevent puffing.

   Time: PT5M

4. Rest Patties

   Place the formed patties on a plate, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 15 minutes. This firms them up for a good sear.

   Time: PT15M

5. Caramelize Onions

   Thinly slice the white onion. Melt butter in a skillet over medium‑low heat, add the onions and sugar, and cook, stirring occasionally, until deep golden and sweet, about 10 minutes.

   Time: PT10M

   Temperature: 300°F

6. Egg Wash and Toast Buns

   Whisk the egg with water. Brush the cut sides of each brioche bun with the egg wash. Place buns on a sheet pan, egg‑side up, and bake in a pre‑heated 350°F oven for 4‑5 minutes, until lightly golden.

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: 350°F

7. Cook the Burgers

   Heat a skillet or grill pan over high heat until very hot. Add the patties and sear 3‑4 minutes per side for medium‑rare, or longer to desired doneness. If using a thermometer, aim for 130°F for medium‑rare.

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: 400°F

8. Assemble the Burgers

   On the bottom bun, place a cooked patty, top with a generous spoonful of caramelized onions, two pickle slices, and the top bun. Serve immediately.

   Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

620

Protein

35g

Carbohydrates

45g

Fat

30g

Fiber

2g