Cheeseburgers are an all-time American favorite; roadside diners and little Mom-and-Pop eateries along major traffic routes and state highways made hamburgers famous even before interstate highways became a norm. Toasted buns, sweet tomatoes and crisp lettuce are the other major ingredients.

Diner Burgers

2 pounds lean ground beef
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
8 ounces cheddar cheese, sliced
1 package hamburger buns
1 head romaine lettuce
1/2 pound tomato, thinly sliced
1 onion, thinly sliced

1. Heat a grill according to type of grill (allow coals to become white) before cooking.
2. Season ground beef with salt and pepper and divide into 6 equal patties.
3. Adjust grill rack to correct height for cooking on medium-hot.
4. Place beef patties onto a medium-hot grill for about 5 minutes for medium-rare or 7 to 8 minutes for medium, turning twice. During last minute of cooking (medium-rare or medium) place equal portions of cheese onto meat patties (for those who want cheeseburgers); allow cheese to soften.
5. Meanwhile split hamburger buns and toast on sides of grill or under broiler.
6. Shake or spin excess water from Romaine leaves; tear or cut leaves as desired.
7. Place a patty on each bun and garnish with a lettuce leaf, tomato and onion.

Makes 6 servings.