Step 1: Prepare the Burger Sauce (If Using)

1. In a small bowl, combine all sauce ingredients: mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, white vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

2. Whisk until completely smooth.

3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This can be done a day ahead.

Step 2: Make the Hamburger Patty Mix

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef.

2. Pro Tip: Add the finely grated onion (and its juices), minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika directly to the meat.

3. Using a fork or your hands, gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix, as this will compress the meat proteins and result in tough, dense patties.

4. Let the mixture rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes to allow the salt to distribute and the flavors to blend.

Step 3: Form the Perfect Patties

1. Divide the meat mixture into 4 equal portions (roughly 125g or 4.5 oz each).

2. Gently shape each portion into a loose ball, then flatten it into a disc about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick.

3. Crucial Step: Use your thumb to make a deep indentation (about ½-inch wide) in the center of each patty. This prevents the burger from bulging into a dome shape as it cooks, ensuring even thickness.

4. Place the formed patties on a plate or tray lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes. Chilling helps them hold their shape on the grill or pan.

Step 4: Cook the Hamburgers to Perfection

For Stovetop (Cast Iron Skillet or Grill Pan Recommended):

1. Heat a heavy skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat until very hot.

2. Add the oil and swirl to coat.

3. Place the patties in the pan, indentation-side up. Do not press down on them with a spatula—this squeezes out the precious juices!

4. Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes for the first side, until a deep brown crust forms.

5. Flip the burgers. If adding cheese, place a slice on each patty now.

6. Cook for another 3-4 minutes for medium (internal temperature of 71°C/160°F). Adjust time for desired doneness.

7. Transfer to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute.

For Grilling:

1. Preheat your grill to high heat (about 230°C/450°F).

2. Clean and oil the grates thoroughly to prevent sticking.

3. Place patties directly over the heat, indent-side up. Close the lid.

4. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, adding cheese in the last minute if desired.

Step 5: Toast the Buns and Assemble

1. While the patties rest, spread softened butter on the cut sides of your hamburger buns.

2. Toast them in the same skillet, on the grill, or in a toaster until golden brown and crisp.

3. Build Your Hamburger: On the bottom bun, spread a layer of the special sauce (or mayonnaise). Add a lettuce leaf (this creates a barrier to prevent the bun from getting soggy). Follow with the juicy hamburger patty, then tomato slices, onion rings, pickles, and bacon. Crown it with the top bun.