Cast-Iron Skillet Burgers

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This is the burger to end all burgers, and it's made in a skillet. Our testing editor praised the use of mustard and Worcestershire sauce for giving our Cast-Iron Skillet Burgers all the depth and brightness one could possibly hope for between two buns. The real clincher though? The skillet. This recipe is a one-dish wonder in the best possible way. Each ingredient that hits the skillet adds layer upon layer of flavor, starting with the bacon. We call for six thick-cut slices, cooked until just crispy. While they drain on paper towels, add red onion rings to the skillet along with 1 tablespoon of reserved bacon grease. Perfectly caramelized onions (with a hint of bacon-y goodness) are yours in a matter of minutes. Add the patties to the skillet and cook until desired level of doneness. Top your burger with a kaiser roll, American cheese, mayo, ketchup, bacon, caramelized onions, and dill pickles. It's certified perfection.

Cast-Iron Skillet Burgers
Photo: photographer: Jennifer Causey; Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer
Active Time:
35 mins
Total Time:
35 mins
Yield:
Serves 4 (serving size: 1 burger)

Ingredients

  • 6 thick-cut bacon slices

  • 1 small (8 oz.) red onion, cut into 1/2-in.-thick rings (about 1 1/2 cups)

  • 1 1/2 pounds 85/15 lean ground beef

  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

  • 2 tablespoons canola oil

  • 4 (3/4-oz.) processed American cheese slices

  • 4 hamburger buns or kaiser rolls, split and lightly toasted

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise

  • 1/4 cup ketchup

  • 12 hamburger dill pickle chips

Directions

  1. Cook bacon in a cast-iron skillet over medium, turning often, until just crispy, about 8 minutes. Drain on paper towels. Cut each slice in half crosswise; set aside. Reserve 1 tablespoon drippings in skillet. Add onion rings to skillet; cook over medium, turning occasionally, until soft and caramelized, 10 to 12 minutes. Drain on paper towels; set aside. Remove skillet from heat, and wipe clean.

  2. Mix together beef, mustard, Worcestershire, salt, and pepper in a bowl using your hands until thoroughly combined. Shape into 4 (3/4-inch-thick) patties.

  3. Heat skillet over medium-high; add oil. Add patties; cook until desired degree of doneness, or about 4 minutes per side for medium well (about 160°F). Transfer to a plate; immediately top each patty with 1 cheese slice.

  4. Spread cut sides of bun halves evenly with mayonnaise. Spread top halves evenly with ketchup. Top bottom halves evenly with patties, onion rings, bacon pieces, and pickles. Replace top bun halves.

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