Step 1

Add oil to a 12-inch stainless steel or cast iron skillet and wipe around with a paper towel. Set skillet over medium heat and allow to preheat for about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, gently form each portion of ground beef into a cylindrical puck about 2 inches tall, pressing together just until meat holds its shape without falling apart. Season generously on all sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2

Increase heat to high until skillet is smoking. Add pucks to skillet and using a firm, stiff metal spatula, press down on each one until they're roughly 4 to 4 1/2-inches in diameter and 1/2-inch thick. It helps to use a second spatula to apply downward pressure to the first if you are having trouble smashing them hard enough.

Step 3

Cook without moving until a golden brown crust develops, about 1 1/2 minutes. Use the edge of the spatula to carefully scrape up and flip the patties one at a time, making sure to get all browned bits removed from the skillet. If using cheese, add now.

Step 4

Continue to cook until patties are cooked to desired doneness—about 30 seconds longer for medium rare. Top buns or patties as desired, transfer patties to buns, close burgers, and serve.