You shouldn't need to transplant more than once. I would start them out in the seed starter and then set it right into your final pot, just water around the plant to get the roots to settle into the new larger container. Make sure to allow the pot to almost dry out before you water again to make sure the roots fully develop.
I would top early and use this method above instead of main lining. I've experimented with mainlining and didn't have great results. Doubled my veg time and made my plants overall less productive.