Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp pickle juice
  • 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 large avocado, sliced
  • 1/2 cup dill pickle chips

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, paprika, garlic powder, and pickle juice. Whisk until the sauce is smooth and velvety. Set aside in the fridge to let flavors meld.
  2. Divide the ground beef into 4 equal balls without overworking the meat.
  3. Heat a cast iron skillet over high heat until it just begins to smoke.
  4. Place a beef ball in the pan and immediately press it down with a heavy spatula until thin and flat. Season generously with salt and pepper.
  5. Sear for 2–3 minutes without moving the meat until the edges are mahogany-colored and crisp.
  6. Flip the patty, add a slice of cheddar cheese, and cook for 1 more minute until the cheese is melted.
  7. Divide the chopped romaine lettuce evenly between four bowls.
  8. Top each bowl with a portion of the smashed beef patty, cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, avocado slices, and dill pickle chips.
  9. Drizzle the prepared signature sauce over the top of each bowl.