Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ cup BBQ sauce
  • 4 burger buns
  • 4 slices cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1 tomato, sliced
  • ½ red onion, thinly sliced
  • 4 pickle slices

Instructions:

  1. Gently combine the ground beef, salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a bowl. Form into four equal patties about ¾ inch thick, pressing a small thumbprint dimple into the center of each patty to ensure even cooking.
  2. Heat a cast iron skillet or outdoor grill to medium-high. Place patties in the pan and sear for 3-4 minutes per side without moving them until a deep, mahogany-colored crust forms.
  3. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, brush the top of each patty with BBQ sauce and immediately place a slice of cheddar cheese on top.
  4. Cover the pan with a lid for 60 seconds until the cheese is melted and the sauce is tacky. Assemble the burgers on buns with lettuce, tomato, red onion, and pickles.