Katie Lee's Logan County Hamburgers

Aired on: June 15, 2012, May 23, 2012

"These thin hamburgers are straight out of the Depression era. My grandmother grew up during the Depression in Logan County, in the hills of West Virginia. Since money was scarce, families had to make their meat go a long way. Even though times have changed, she still likes to make good food that’s easy on the wallet. I just love the combination of the flavors of the burger, raw onion, cheese, and especially the grilled toast." - Katie

Ingredients

For the burgers:
1 pound 85% lean ground beef
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 medium yellow onion, 1/2 grated, 1/2 thinly sliced
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
12 slices white bread
12 slices American cheese (optional)
Toppings (any or all):
Mustard of your choice
Ketchup
Sliced tomatoes
Pickles

Yields: 6

Preparation

Make the burgers: In a medium bowl, combine the beef, egg, grated onion, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Mix until combined. Form into 6 thin patties.

Spread the butter onto one side of each slice of bread. Heat a large heavy-duty skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Cook the burgers about 3 minutes on each side. Drain on paper towels. Drain the grease from the skillet.

In the same skillet, place 6 slices of bread, butter side down. Top each with a slice of cheese (if using), some sliced onions, and a burger. Top with the remaining cheese (if using) and bread, butter side up. Cook the sandwiches until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side.

Serve with mustard, ketchup, tomatoes, pickles or any other desired hamburger toppings.