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Secret-Ingredient Stovetop Burgers

Photo: Aya Brackett

BY The Editors

PUBLISHED April 1, 2024

You know the quintessential American food is always better at home. Blow your mind by grinding meat fresh in the food processor. When you have less time, go for Secret-Ingredient Stovetop Burgers. (We won’t spoil the surprise here.)

 

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Secret-Ingredient Stovetop Burgers

Prevent your screen from going dark

Makes 4 servings 1x

Time 20 minutes

Units Scale

Ingredients

  • 4 oil-packed anchovies, or to taste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 1/2 pounds good-quality, not-too-lean ground beef (no more than 90%)
  • Salt and pepper
  • 4 kaiser rolls or other large rolls, split
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Condiments

Instructions

  1. Turn on the broiler and position the rack 4 inches below it. Put the anchovies and Worcestershire sauce in a large bowl and mash with a fork until well blended. Add the beef to the bowl and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Use your hands to mix until just combined. To taste and adjust the seasoning, cook a small pinch of the meat in a pan or microwave.
  2. With a light touch, shape the mixture into 4 burgers, about 1 inch thick. (You can make them ahead and refrigerate them, tightly covered, up to a few hours; bring back to room temperature before cooking.)
  3. Put the hamburger buns cut side up on a baking sheet and, watching closely, broil until they are lightly toasted, just a few minutes.
  4. Put a large skillet over medium-high heat until smoking hot. Add the burgers and drizzle with the olive oil. Cook the burgers until they release easily, about 4 minutes per side for medium-rare, and a minute more per side for each increasing stage of doneness, 5 for medium, and 6 for well done. Turn and repeat on the other side, checking frequently by peeking inside so you can remove them the second they’re ready. Immediately transfer them to the buns to capture the juices. Serve with any condiments you like.

— Recipe from Dinner for Everyone: 100 Iconic Dishes Made 3 Ways 

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