In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, and pepper.
Mix everything together until fully incorporated, but don’t overwork the meat to keep the burgers tender.
Form Patties:
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions (for standard-sized burgers) and form them into patties. Press a small indentation in the middle of each patty to ensure they cook evenly.
Cook:
On the stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a bit of oil. Cook the patties for about 5-7 minutes per side until they’re fully cooked (internal temp of 160°F for well-done).
On the grill: Cook over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes per side or until they reach the desired doneness.
In the oven: Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Serve:
Toast the buns lightly. Place the cooked patties on the buns and top with cheese if desired. Add your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, pickles, or condiments.
Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor:
For a spicier kick, add some hot sauce to the meat mixture.
Bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms are great additions for a more gourmet burger.
You could also mix in chopped bell peppers or grated zucchini for added moisture.
