Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions, gently shape into patties without overworking, and press a shallow indent in the center of each patty with your thumb.

Season both sides of each patty with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

Heat a cast iron skillet or grill over medium-high heat, cook the patties for 4 minutes on the first side, flip once, and cook for 3 to 4 minutes more until the internal temperature reaches 160°F / 71°C.

Place one cheese slice on each patty during the last 60 seconds of cooking and cover the pan to melt the cheese.

Toast the burger buns cut-side down in the same pan for 1 to 2 minutes until golden.

Mix the mayonnaise and ketchup together to make the burger sauce.

Assemble each burger by spreading sauce on the bottom bun, adding lettuce, tomato, the cheesy patty, and the top bun.