Place the ground beef in a bowl and add the kosher salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and optional minced onion. Mix gently with your hands just until the seasonings are distributed; overmixing can make the burgers dense.

Divide the mixture into four portions of about 6 ounces each. Shape each portion into a patty slightly wider than the bun, then press a shallow indentation into the center to help prevent puffing during cooking.

Heat a grill or heavy skillet to medium-high, approximately 400–450°F. Place the patties on the hot cooking surface and grill or sear for about 4–5 minutes per side, turning once without pressing them down.

Add a slice of cheddar or American cheese during the final 1–2 minutes if desired. Continue cooking until the thickest part of each ground beef patty reaches 160°F on an instant-read thermometer.

Toast the buns for 30–60 seconds on the grill or in the skillet. Assemble the burgers with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, and any preferred variation toppings, then serve immediately.