Prepare the Confidential Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, chopped pickles, vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well until smooth and refrigerate the sauce while preparing the patties.

Shape and Season the Patties: Separate the ground beef into four equal sections and shape each into a loose ball. Season each ball with salt and pepper generously on both sides.

Smash and Cook the Patties: Preheat a spacious skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. When the pan is sufficiently hot, add one of the beef balls and press it down firmly with a spatula to form a thin patty. Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy. Flip the patty over and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes. If you’re adding cheddar cheese, place a slice on top after flipping to allow it to melt.

Toast the Buns: While the patties are cooking, butter the hamburger buns and toast them on a separate pan or the same griddle until golden and crisp.

Assemble the Burgers: Spread a generous amount of the Confidential Sauce on both the top and bottom buns. Place the cooked patties on the bottom buns and layer with your desired toppings like lettuce, tomato slices, red onion, and pickles. Top with the remaining bun and serve hot.