The Great American Hamburger

Prepare barbecue (high heat). Brush and oil the grate. Gently pat the meat into 4 patties, each about 4 inches in diameter and 1 inch thick. (Burgers can be prepared up to 8 hours ahead. Transfer to platter. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate.)

Brush both sides of the onion slices with butter, season with salt and pepper and place on the grill. Cook until tender, about 4 minutes per side. Set aside and keep warm.

Brush the tops of the burgers with a little melted butter and season with salt and pepper. Place the burgers butter side down on the grill. Cook 4 minutes. Brush the tops of the burgers with a little more melted butter and season with more salt and pepper. Turn burgers over and continue grilling until cooked to desired doneness, about 4 minutes longer for medium-rare.

Brush the buns with melted butter and toast them on the grill, cut side down, for 30 to 60 seconds. Place the burgers and onion slices on the buns, adding the garnish and condiments of your choice.