These are the kind of big, beefy, no-nonsense, cooked-on-a-flattop burgers you find at places like J.G. Melon in New York City or Mr. Bartley’s Burger Cottage in Cambridge, Massachusetts. These burgers emphasize crustiness and juiciness, and skipping the grill in lieu of a pan or flattop means there’s no smoky overshadowing of the pure beefiness.

Diner Burgers

Ingredients:

• 20 to 24 ounces freshly ground beef , at least 20% fat

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• A few teaspoons of neutral oil or clarified butter

• 4 to 8 slices cheese of your choice

• 4 soft hamburger buns , toasted

• Toppings and condiments, as desired

Directions:

Place the beef on a parchment-lined rimmed baking sheet and divide it into four even piles. Without lifting the meat, gently shape

See Full Page