My Favorite Butter Burger

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

2. Put ground beef into a large bowl.

3. Sprinkle the minced garlic over the top of the beef.

4. Sprinkle the smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper over the top of the beef.

5. Pour on the Worcestershire sauce.

6. With your hands (or a spoon) mix and knead the beef and seasonings until evenly combined.

7. Using a box grater, quickly grate the very cold butter, as you would cheese.

8. Sprinkle the grated butter over the beef mixture.

9. Quickly knead in the butter, trying to distribute evenly—you don’t want your hands to melt the butter, so move fast.

10. Separate the beef into 8 equal sized portions, and form into balls. Flatten the balls into patties. Try to tuck any exposed, larger butter pieces inside of the patties.

11. Cook immediately, or chill in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

12. When ready, grill the hamburgers over medium-high heat, until done to your liking. Grilling times will vary based on the grill, and the degree of doneness. I flip the burgers after the first 2 minutes, to sear both sides, Then grill about 4 minutes per side for medium well doneness. Watch for flare ups, and move the burgers if they occur.

13. Serve on toasted buns, with the condiments of your choice. This burger stands well on its own, so the simpler the toppings the better. Or go all out with caramelized onions, tomato slices, sautéed mushrooms, crisply cooked bacon, cheese, pickles, and/or guacamole.