Name: Ultimate SFAH-Inspired Burger with Pickled Cucumbers and Cheddar
Prep time: 35 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness); 1 tsp kosher salt; 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 1 tbsp olive oil; 4 brioche or potato burger buns; 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened; 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese; 1 small red onion, thinly sliced; 1 large heirloom tomato, sliced; 4 leaves butter lettuce; 1/4 cup pickled cucumbers or cornichons, sliced; 2 tbsp mayonnaise; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tbsp ketchup

Ultimate SFAH-Inspired Burger with Pickled Cucumbers and Cheddar

miradu

This burger recipe draws inspiration from Samin Nosrat’s philosophy in 'Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat,' balancing savory, tangy, and fresh flavors with contrasting textures. Juicy, seared beef patties are paired with sharp cheddar, zippy pickled cucumbers, and a trio of classic burger condiments for layered complexity. Crispy-edged, butter-toasted buns and a vibrant stack of fresh heirloom tomato, red onion, and butter lettuce make every bite irresistible. This burger is perfect for a cozy, foggy San Francisco evening and invites you to savor each element, from the golden crust on the patty to the creamy, tangy sauce melded with melty cheese.

Ingredients

Instructions

In a mixing bowl, gently combine ground beef with salt and pepper; form into 4 loose, thick patties, handling minimally for tenderness.
Heat olive oil in a large cast iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Add patties to the hot skillet and press a shallow dimple in the center of each; sear for 3-4 minutes without moving, until a deep crust forms.
Flip, add a slice of cheddar to each, and cook another 2-3 minutes for medium, covering briefly to melt the cheese.
While patties cook, split the buns and spread cut sides with butter; toast in a separate pan or under a broiler until golden and crisp.
Mix mayonnaise, Dijon, and ketchup in a small bowl for a quick burger sauce.
Build each burger: spread sauce on the bottom bun, layer lettuce, tomato, and onion, then the cheesy patty, topped with pickled cucumbers; cap with the top bun.
Serve immediately, with extra sauce or pickles on the side.