Old-Fashioned Cheeseburgers

1. Heat broiler. Divide beef into 4 rounds and place each between two layers of plastic wrap. Using a rolling pin, roll beef into 1/4-inch-thick patties. Butter inside of each bun. Place on a baking sheet, buttered side up, and toast under broiler.

2. Heat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over high. Generously season patties on both sides with salt and pepper. Working in batches, cook burgers 1 to 2 minutes. Flip and top each with cheese; cover and cook 1 to 2 minutes more. Place burgers on buns and serve with desired toppings.

Cook's Notes

Beef chuck with 20 percent fat makes for juicy burgers. The meat shrinks as it cooks, so form it into wide patties.

Variations

To grill the burgers, simply roll the patties slightly thicker (3/8 inch) and grill over medium-high heat, 2 minutes per side.