• Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making this burger yourself.

Step 1: Preparing the Beef Patty

• Start by shaping your ground beef into a 1/5 pound patty. Make sure it’s not too thick; keeping it a little thinner allows it to cook evenly. Use your thumb to create a slight indentation in the center of the patty—this helps prevent it from puffing up while cooking. Season both sides with a dash of sea salt.

Step 2: Cooking the Patty

• Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the patty. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side, or until a nice sear forms. Flip the patty and cook for another 2-3 minutes for medium doneness. In the last minute of cooking, place the slice of cheddar cheese on top of the patty, allowing it to melt into gooey perfection.

Step 3: Toasting the Bun

• While the patty cooks, take your sesame seed bun and toast it. You can do this in a toaster or on a pan with a little butter. Toasting adds texture and prevents sogginess when you add toppings.

Step 4: Assembling the Burger

• Start with the bottom half of the bun. Spread the creamy mayonnaise on it, followed by the cooked beef patty with melted cheese. Next, layer the crisp iceberg lettuce leaf, followed by the slices of ripe tomato and two tangy dill pickles. Add the finely chopped red onion for a pop of color and flavor.

Step 5: Adding Condiments and Closing It Up

• Next, drizzle the zesty ketchup and Dijon mustard on top of everything. Finally, crown your masterpiece with the top half of the bun. Give it a gentle press to keep everything in place, and voilà—you’ve got a homemade Jack in the Box burger!