Maura Egan and Christine Muhlke developed this recipe in 2004, around the time of the Olympic Games in Athens, after talking with Shane Hamman, then the No. 1 weight lifter in America, capable of squatting more than 1,000 pounds. He ate two for lunch, amid his 5,000 calorie day. It’s pretty delicious.

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces ground beef, like chuck
  • 1 egg yolk, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 to 3 slices sharp Cheddar cheese
  • 1 sesame bun, halved and toasted if desired
  • Pickles
  • Ketchup and mustard

    1 cheeseburger

    Preparation

    1. In large bowl, combine beef, egg, paprika and salt. Mix well and form 1 large patty.
    2. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add patty and cook 4 minutes; turn over and top with cheese. Continue to cook an additional 3 to 4 minutes for medium rare.
    3. Place the burger cheese side up on bun and top with pickles, ketchup and/or mustard. Place other bun half on top and serve.

    20 minutes

    Dining and Cooking