Best-Ever Smash Burgers

Divide 1 lb. ground beef, preferably 20% fat into 4 equal portions but do not shape into patties.

Heat large cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until you see a wisp of smoke; add about 1 Tbsp. of vegetable oil.

Working in batches, place portioned meat in hot skillet, spacing evenly apart. Firmly smash down meat as thin as possible with a heavy metal spatula (use the handle of a second spatula to help press down the metal blade); season the smashed beef patties liberally with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook burgers, undisturbed, until deeply browned underneath, about 2 minutes. Flip patties, season lightly with salt and place 1 slice of American cheese over each patty; cook until slice of cheese is melted and meat is cooked through, about 1 minute.

Transfer to wire rack set inside rimmed baking sheet.

Build burgers with toasted potato buns, mayonnaise, shredded iceberg lettuce, and dill pickle slices. Pass ketchup for serving.