Mushroom Swiss Burger

Ingredients

Ground beef

1 pound (80/20 blend for optimal juiciness)

Salt

1 teaspoon, divided

Black pepper

1/2 teaspoon, divided

Olive oil

2 tablespoons

Mushrooms

8 ounces, sliced (cremini or button mushrooms work well)

Swiss cheese

4 slices

Buns

4 brioche or whole wheat burger buns

Tomato

1 large, sliced

Lettuce

4 leaves (romaine or iceberg)

Garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon (optional)

Ketchup

to taste

Mustard

to taste

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, season the ground beef with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and garlic powder if using. Gently mix until just combined and form into 4 equally sized patties, making a slight indentation in the center of each to prevent puffing during cooking.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the patties to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium doneness, or until cooked to your preferred level. Use a meat thermometer if needed; aim for 160°F (71°C) for medium.
3. While the patties are cooking, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in another skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they are soft and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance their flavor.
4. Once the burgers are almost done, place a slice of Swiss cheese on each patty and cover the skillet with a lid to melt the cheese, about 1-2 minutes.
5. While the cheese is melting, toast the buns until golden brown on a separate skillet or in a toaster.
6. Assemble each burger by placing a lettuce leaf on the bottom half of the bun, followed by a slice of tomato. Add the cheese-covered patty, a generous portion of sautéed mushrooms, and ketchup or mustard to taste. Finally, top with the other half of the bun.
7. Serve immediately, and enjoy your delectable Mushroom Swiss Burger!