Savory Mushroom and Beef Burger

Ingredients

• Ground beef (1 pound, 80/20 blend for optimal juiciness)
• Mushrooms (1 cup, finely chopped (preferably cremini or button))
• Onion (1/2 cup, finely chopped)
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
• Worcestershire sauce (2 tablespoons)
• Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon)
• Salt (1 teaspoon)
• Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
• Hamburger buns (4, preferably whole grain or brioche)
• Cheese (4 slices (cheddar or your favorite variety))
• Tomato (1 large, sliced)
• Lettuce (4 leaves (romaine or iceberg))
• Pickles (4 slices)
• Olive oil (for grilling)

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped mushrooms, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with your hands until the ingredients are just combined, taking care not to overwork the meat to keep the burgers tender.
2. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent puffing during cooking.
3. Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates or the skillet with olive oil to prevent sticking.
4. Cook the burgers for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness (internal temperature should reach 160°F for medium).
5. In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on top of each patty to melt.
6. While the burgers are cooking, toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster until golden brown.
7. Assemble the burgers: Start with a lettuce leaf on the bottom bun, followed by a slice of tomato, the cooked burger patty with melted cheese, a pickle slice, and finally the top bun.
8. Serve the savory mushroom and beef burgers with your favorite condiments such as ketchup, mayo, or additional mustard. Enjoy!