Ingredients:

For the Burger Patties:

• 300 g ground beef (80% lean for juiciness)

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• Olive oil, for cooking

• 1 tablespoon butter (prevents burning and adds flavor)

For the Assembly:

• Gluten-free burger buns

• Sliced cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or your favorite)

• Lettuce leaves

• Mayonnaise and ketchup (or your preferred condiments)

• Optional toppings: tomato slices, pickles, caramelized onions, or avocado

Preparation:

1. Prepare the Burger Patties:

• In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, garlic, onion and salt. Mix gently with your hands until just combined—overmixing can make the patties dense.

• Shape the mixture into burger patties, slightly wider than the buns to account for shrinkage during cooking. Make them evenly flat for even cooking.

2. Cook the Burgers:

• Heat a nonstick frying pan over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil and the butter.

• Once the pan is hot, add the patties. Flatten slightly with a spatula and cover the pan with a lid. Cook for about 3–4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown.

• Flip the patties, place a slice of cheese on top of each, and cover again. Cook for another 3–4 minutes until the cheese is melted and the patties are cooked to your liking. Remove from heat and let them rest, covered, for a few minutes to retain juices.
  

3. Toast the Gluten-Free Buns:

• In a separate preheated nonstick pan, spread a thin layer of butter on the inside of the gluten-free burger buns. Place them cut-side down and toast until golden and slightly crispy.

4. Assemble the Burgers:

• Spread mayonnaise and ketchup (or your favorite sauces) on the toasted buns.

• Layer the lettuce on the bottom bun to prevent it from getting soggy.

• Place the burger patty on top, allowing the melted cheese to shine.

• Add any additional toppings, like tomato slices, pickles, or avocado, then cover with the top bun.

5. Serve:

• Pair your burger with air-fried fries, a fresh salad, or your favorite side. A refreshing juice or sparkling water makes for the perfect combo!
  

Tips for the Perfect Gluten-Free Burger:

• Juicy Patties: Don’t press down on the burgers while they cook—it squeezes out the juices.

• Even Cooking: Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty before cooking to help them cook evenly without puffing up.

• Caramelized Onion Upgrade: Sauté sliced onions in the pan after cooking the burgers for an extra sweet and savory topping.

• Gluten-Free Bun Swap: If you prefer a lighter option, use large lettuce leaves or portobello mushrooms as a bun alternative.