Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef chuck
• 4 1/2-inch cubes pepper jack cheese (about 1 ounce total)
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
• 1/2 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 4 slices cheddar cheese (about 2 ounces)
• 4 hamburger buns
• Ketchup, mustard and/or mayonnaise, for spreading (optional)
• Lettuce leaves, sliced tomato and/or sliced red onion, for topping
• Pickles, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Divide the beef into 4 equal portions. Press a cube of pepper jack into the center of each and shape the meat around the cheese; form into patties, about 4 inches wide and 3/4 inch thick. Season the patties with salt and pepper. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook until browned on the bottom, about 4 minutes. Flip the patties and top each with a slice of cheddar; cook 4 to 5 more minutes. Meanwhile, toast the hamburger buns and spread with ketchup, mustard and/or mayonnaise. Fill with the burgers and top with lettuce, tomato and/or red onion. Serve with pickles.
2. Photograph by Christopher Testani