Greased Lightnin' Burger

Step 1 -Divide the beef into 6 equal rounds.

Step 2 -Place a skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 3 -Add the beef rounds, in batches, to the skillet and immediately and firmly flatten the rounds with a metal spatula until they form 1/4-inch-thick patties. Note: the patties should be larger than the buns as they will shrink slightly during cooking.

Step 4 -Liberally season the tops of the smashed burgers with the salt and the pepper, cooking the burgers until the tops begin to darken, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5 -Flip the burgers and very lightly season the reverse sides of the patties with the salt and the pepper. Note: the burgers are very thin, so you need to be careful not to over-season them.

Step 6 -Continue to cook the burgers until the bottoms brown, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 7 -While the burgers are cooking, warm a separate skillet over medium heat.

Step 8 -Evenly coat the cut-side of each of the buns with the butter, then add them, buttered-side down, to the skillet and toast, about 3 minutes.

Step 9 -Place the cooked burgers on the toasted buns and top each of the patties with 1 slice of the American cheese.

Step 10 -Repeat this process until all of the patties are cooked, all of the buns are toasted, and all of the cheese slices are used.

Step 11 -Top the burgers with your favorite toppings.

Step 12 -Serve.