Step 1

Heat oven to broil (high) and set the oven rack to the upper-middle position.

Step 2

Line a cast iron grill pan or baking sheet with foil.

Step 3

Divide the meat into four 4-ounce portions. Very gently, and without overworking the meat, form each portion into 4 loose balls. Place one ball on a dessert plate or other flat surface and gently press it down to make a disc about ½-¾ inch thick (your personal choice). Now gently turn the disc around while slightly pressing an indentation around the edge (kind of like a moat right inside the burger’s edge). This will keep the burger from developing a mound in the middle and your burger will remain flat while cooking. Place the burger on the prepared pan and repeat the process with the remaining portions of beef.

Step 4

Season both sides of each burger generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, and place the burgers in the oven.

Step 5

Broil for 4 minutes, or until the top has browned and beginning to char.

Step 6

Flip the burgers over and broil until the center reads 155°F internally, about 3-4 minutes longer.

Step 7

Top each burger with a slice of your favorite cheese, if desired, and cook just until the cheese melts.

Step 8

Transfer the burgers to a cooling rack and tent with foil to allow time for the internal temperature to reach 160°F.

Step 9

Serve the burgers on toasted buns and top with the condiments of your choice.