why make this recipe
Burgers are a favorite food for many people. There’s just something special about a juicy burger on a bun. While we can easily cook burgers at home, chefs from restaurants create something unique. They use special techniques and ingredients that make burgers taste amazing. Learning these tips can help you make delicious burgers in your own kitchen.
how to make burgers
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 4 hamburger buns
- Optional toppings: cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, ketchup, mustard
Directions:
- Prep the beef: In a bowl, mix the ground beef with salt and pepper. Don’t overwork the meat; just mix until combined.
- Form patties: Divide the beef into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty that is about ¾ inch thick. Make a small indent in the center of each patty with your thumb. This helps them cook evenly.
- Cook the patties: Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on one side. Flip them over and cook for another 3-4 minutes. If you want cheese, place a slice on each patty in the last minute of cooking.
- Toast the buns: During the last minute of cooking, place the hamburger buns cut side down on the grill or skillet to toast them lightly.
- Assemble the burgers: Place the cooked patties on the toasted buns and add your favorite toppings. Serve hot.
how to serve burgers
Burgers are best served right after cooking. Place them on a plate with some side dishes like fries, onion rings, or a salad. You can also serve them with a selection of sauces and condiments for guests to add as they like.
how to store burgers
If you have leftover cooked patties, let them cool down first. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the patties by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or foil. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
tips to make burgers
- Use meat with some fat; 80% lean beef is great for flavor and juiciness.
- Avoid pressing the patties down while cooking; this will lose the juices.
- Experiment with different spices or sauces to give your burgers more flavor.
- Always let the cooked burgers rest for a few minutes before serving; this helps keep them juicy.
variation
You can create different burger variations by using ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives. Add spices, herbs, or different toppings like avocado or spicy sauces to change things up.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen beef for making burgers?
Yes, you can use frozen beef. Just make sure to thaw it first and handle it gently.
2. How do I know when my burger is cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should be 160°F (71°C) for ground beef.
3. What can I do if my burgers are dry?
To prevent dry burgers, avoid overcooking them. Also, using a higher fat content in the meat helps keep them juicy.
Burgers
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean) Use beef with some fat for flavor and juiciness.
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 4 pieces hamburger buns Can be toasted lightly.
Optional toppings
- cheese Optional; add in the last minute of cooking.
- lettuce
- tomato
- onion
- pickles
- ketchup
- mustard
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, mix the ground beef with salt and pepper. Don’t overwork the meat; just mix until combined.
- Divide the beef into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty that is about ¾ inch thick. Make a small indent in the center of each patty with your thumb.
Cooking
- Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on one side.
- Flip them over and cook for another 3-4 minutes. If you want cheese, place a slice on each patty in the last minute of cooking.
- During the last minute of cooking, place the hamburger buns cut side down on the grill or skillet to toast them lightly.
Serving
- Place the cooked patties on the toasted buns and add your favorite toppings. Serve hot.