Pan-Seared Burger with Mixed Greens and Tangy Mustard Vinaigrette

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-05-12 · Updated 2026-05-12

A juicy pan-seared beef burger served on a toasted bun with a fresh mixed green salad dressed in a vibrant mustard vinaigrette. This American-inspired beef recipe, ready in about 20 minutes, pairs ground beef, salt, black pepper for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 480 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 burger buns
• 4 cups mixed salad greens
• 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp honey
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

The instant-read thermometer we’d check this meat with → Best Instant-Read Thermometers for 2026: Fast, Accurate Picks Under $100

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, combine 1 lb ground beef with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper, mixing gently to combine without overworking; form into four equal patties.
2. Step 2: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then add the patties and cook for 4 minutes per side until a deep brown crust forms and internal temperature reaches 160°F.
3. Step 3: Meanwhile, toast 4 burger buns cut-side down in a separate dry skillet over medium heat for 2 minutes until golden and crisp.
4. Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp honey, and 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil until emulsified.
5. Step 5: In a large salad bowl, toss 4 cups mixed salad greens, 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes, and 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion with the mustard vinaigrette until evenly coated.
6. Step 6: Assemble each burger by placing the patty on the toasted bun bottom and topping with a handful of dressed salad greens; cover with the bun top and serve immediately.