Preheat a grill to medium high. Divide the beef into four 6-ounce portions. Gather each into a ball, then gently flatten into a 4 1/2-inch-wide patty about 3/4 inch thick (be careful not to overwork the meat). Press your thumb into the center of each patty to make a 1/2-inch-deep indentation (this prevents the patties from bulging as they cook). Season the patties with salt and pepper.
Lightly oil the grill grates. Grill the patties indentation-side up until they are marked and release easily from the grill, about 4 minutes. Flip and cook until slightly firm, 3 more minutes for medium doneness. For cheeseburgers, top each patty with 2 slices cheese during the last minute of cooking and cover to melt.
Transfer the burgers to a plate and let rest 5 minutes so the juices redistribute. Toast the buns on the grill, 30 seconds. Serve the burgers on the buns.
Tools You May Need
Photograph by Ryan Dausch
Tools You May Need
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