The Best Butter Burger

This recipe has everything you need to make a loaded burger and transform a good dinner into an impress-your-friends meal. Of course, every topping on this mouthwatering meal is optional, so if caramelized onions aren’t your jam or you’re not a fan of pickles, you can leave ‘em off and you’ll still have a classically seasoned, perfectly cooked burger on a buttery, lightly crispy bun.

How To:

1. To caramelize the onions: In a medium non-stick skillet over medium-low heat, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter. Add the onions and a pinch of salt, stir to coat, and cover with a lid. Cook, stirring occasionally, until well browned, about 45 minutes. Transfer the onions to a bowl and let rest at room temperature until ready to use.
2. Meanwhile, cook the bacon to crispy according to package instructions. Let cool until safe to handle, then cut the strips in half. Set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Cover and refrigerate.
4. Divide and roll the ground beef into 12 equal-size balls. Season all sides with salt and pepper and set aside.
5. Spread 1 teaspoon of butter on the cut side of each bun half. Heat a large cast iron skillet or griddle to medium heat. Toast the buns, cut sides down, until golden brown and crispy, 30 seconds to 1 minute. Set aside.
6. To grill the hamburgers: Increase the heat to medium-high. Spray the back of a sturdy spatula with cooking spray.
7. Working in batches, place the burgers on the hot skillet, leaving 3 inches between them. Immediately use the spatula to press the burgers into patties about 4-inches in diameter. Cook for 2 minutes, add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet for every 2 patties, and cook for 1 minute.
8. Flip the patties, add the cheese, and cover the patties with a large lid. Cook for 1 minute, until the cheese just melts.
9. Transfer the patties to a plate, stacking them for double-decker burgers. Repeat step 8 until all the patties are cooked.
10. To build the burgers: Spread 1 tablespoon of burger sauce on the bottom buns. Top with shredded lettuce, sliced pickles, a tomato slice, the stacked patties, and 2 pieces of bacon. Spread 1 tablespoon of burger sauce on the tops, top with a spoonful of caramelized onions, and close the burgers. Enjoy!