Dive into the timeless appeal of The Classic Grilled Burger, a staple of American cuisine that combines simplicity with the unbeatable flavor of grilled meat.
The journey to the perfect classic grilled burger begins with selecting the right meat. Ground beef with a higher fat content, such as an 80/20 mix, ensures a juicy, flavorful patty that won’t dry out on the grill. Seasoning the meat with salt and pepper may seem simple, but it’s crucial for highlighting the beef’s natural flavors.
Forming the patties with a gentle touch is key to keeping them tender and juicy. Overworking the meat can lead to dense, tough burgers, so mix and shape with care. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to prevent puffing up during cooking, ensuring an even, flat surface perfect for stacking toppings.
Grilling the burgers to perfection requires a hot, well-oiled grate to prevent sticking and achieve those coveted grill marks. Cooking time varies based on personal preference, from medium-rare to well-done, but flipping only once preserves the juices and ensures a charred exterior and tender interior.
So, lets grill!
The Classic Grilled Burger
Equipment
- Grill or stovetop griddle
- Large mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 slices of cheese optional
- 4 hamburger buns
- Your choice of toppings lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, etc.
- Condiments ketchup, mustard, mayo, etc.
Instructions
- Preheat your grill or griddle to medium-high heat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Use your hands to mix the ingredients together until well combined.
- Divide the mixture into four equal parts and form each into a patty about 1/2 inch thick. Use your thumb to make an indent in the center of each patty (this will help the burger cook evenly and prevent it from puffing up).
- Place the burgers on your preheated grill or griddle. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium doneness. If adding cheese, place a slice on top of each burger during the last minute of cooking to allow it to melt.
- While the burgers are cooking, lightly toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
- Assemble your burgers by placing a patty on each bun and adding your desired toppings and condiments.