Prepare the patties: In a mixing bowl, combine the beef mince, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Use your hands to mix gently until just combined; overworking the meat will make it dense. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a patty about 2cm thick. Press a small indent in the centre with your thumb — this stops them from bulging into a ball as they cook. The patties should feel cool and slightly tacky to the touch.

Heat the pan: Place a large frying pan or skillet over a medium-high heat and add the oil. Wait until the oil shimmers and you see a faint wisp of smoke rising from the surface. This should take about 90 seconds. The pan needs to be hot enough to sear the meat immediately, creating a deep brown crust.

Sear the patties: Gently lay the patties into the hot pan, leaving space between each one. You should hear a vigorous sizzle as they hit the surface. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes without moving them. The edges will turn a rich, dark brown, and you’ll smell the toasty, savoury aroma of browning beef.

Flip and add cheese: Using a spatula, flip each patty. The cooked side should be mahogany brown with crispy edges. Immediately place a slice of cheddar on top of each patty. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes. The cheese will soften, bubble at the edges, and begin to droop over the meat. The patties are ready when an instant-read thermometer reaches 71°C in the centre, or when they feel firm but still have a slight give when pressed.

Toast the buns: While the patties finish cooking, split the burger buns and place them cut-side down in a dry, separate pan or under a hot grill for about 1 minute. They should turn golden and feel crisp to the touch, with a warm, nutty scent.

Assemble the burgers: Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun. Add a lettuce leaf, then the cheesy patty. Top with a slice of tomato, a few onion rings, a squeeze of ketchup and mustard, and a pickle slice if using. Place the top bun on firmly. Serve immediately while the patty is still hot and the cheese is melted.