My At-Home Burger (with pics)

I've never made burgers on my own mainly because I never liked the ones my parents made growing up, but I've been reading up on the keys to the best burger, and decided to try my hand tonight.

I started by getting brisket ground for me at Fresh Market. Because brisket is 25-30% fat, it works well for burgers.



I seasoned the meat, while touching it sparingly as to not overwork the meat. This is where my biggest mistake occurred. I read to salt it like there's no tomorrow. When you think there's enough, salt some more. I was hesitant with the salt, and it led to a burger that wasn't quite as flavorful as I had hoped.



Formed into patties with a thumbprint in the middle. I took a photo of this, but it didn't seem to upload.

Seared in a very hot cast iron with butter.



From what I read, lots of "burger chefs" finish their burgers off in the oven as to not overcook the outside. After searing, the inside wasn't cooked enough, so I took to the oven.



While cooking, I grated some Havarti cheese.



.. and put the fries going. (YES.. they're frozen Ore Ida curly fries)



Gathered some assembly items.. These brioche buns from Fresh Market's bakery were brushed with butter and placed in the oven before assembling the burgers.



Cooked down some onions.



Fries are finished and tossed with seasoning.



Burger!





Mine was cooked a little more than I'd like, but that's okay.



Jones' looked great.