Hamburgers

Directions

1. 1
   Using your hands, break the meat into small pieces and combine evenly but loosely on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. 2
   Spread the meat out and season it generously with salt and pepper.
3. 3
   Preheat the oven to 475 degrees F. Place a roasting rack on a foil-lined baking sheet in the oven.
4. 4
   Divide the meat into 4 portions (about 5 ounces each).
5. 5
   Using your hands, form each portion into a ball-shape by gently tossing it from one hand to the other.
6. 6
   (Don't over work or press too firmly on the meat.)
7. 7
   Gently form each portion into a patty about 3 inches wide and 1-inch-thick.
8. 8
   Preheat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-low heat for 5 minutes.
9. 9
   Raise the heat to high and add the oil.
10. 10
    Add the patties and cook, turning once, until well-browned, about 2 minutes the first side, and 1 minute the second side.
11. 11
    Using a spatula, transfer the hamburgers to the roasting rack in the oven and continue cooking to desired doneness, 5 minutes for very rare (blue), 6 to 7 minutes for rare, 8 to 9 minutes for medium-rare, 10 to 11 minutes for medium, and 13 to 15 minutes for well-done.
12. 12
    If you are using the cheese, top the hamburgers during their last couple of minutes of cooking to melt.
13. 13
    Transfer the hamburgers to a plate let rest for a couple minutes before serving.
14. 14
    Meanwhile, toast the hamburger buns.
15. 15
    Assemble the hamburgers with the condiments and toppings of your choice.
16. 16
    Serve.