01 - Divide ground beef into four equal balls and flatten each into a patty about 1/3 inch thick.
02 - Season both sides of each patty evenly with salt and pepper.
03 - Heat skillet or grill over medium-high heat and add butter or oil.
04 - Place patties in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
05 - Lay a slice of cheese on top of two patties during the final minute of cooking and let it melt completely.
06 - Stack one cheese-topped patty with a plain patty, cheese side facing down, to form two double-patty stacks with cheese sandwiched between.
07 - Add optional toppings such as pickles, tomato, grilled onion, and lettuce between patties if desired.
08 - Serve immediately while hot and melty.