How to make burgers from ground beef?

By HotBotUpdated: August 14, 2024

Answer

Selecting the Right Ground Beef

When it comes to making the perfect burger, the type of ground beef you choose is crucial. Ground beef typically comes in three main varieties based on the fat content:

80/20: This ratio means the beef is 80% lean and 20% fat. It's ideal for burgers as the fat keeps the patty juicy and flavorful.
85/15: This ratio is 85% lean and 15% fat. It's a good middle ground if you want a slightly leaner burger without sacrificing too much moisture.
90/10: This leaner option has 90% lean meat and 10% fat. While healthier, it can result in a drier burger.

Ingredients and Seasoning

The key to a delicious burger lies not just in the meat but also in the seasoning. Here are some ingredients you’ll need:

Ground Beef: As discussed, 80/20 is generally the best choice.
Salt: Kosher salt is preferred for its larger grains, which help in even seasoning.
Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a spicy kick.
Optional Add-ins: Finely chopped onions, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and even a splash of soy sauce can enhance the flavor.

Forming the Patties

Forming the patties correctly is an essential step in making burgers. Here are some tips:

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Portioning: Use a kitchen scale to ensure each patty is the same size. A common size is 6-8 ounces per patty.
Shaping: Gently shape the meat into a ball and then flatten into a disk about ¾-inch thick. Avoid overworking the meat to keep it tender.
Indentation: Make a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb. This prevents the burger from puffing up during cooking.

Seasoning the Patties

Seasoning should be done just before cooking to prevent the salt from drawing out moisture:

Sprinkle both sides of the patty generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a sprinkle of garlic powder or onion powder.

Cooking Methods

There are several methods to cook burgers, and each offers its own unique flavor and texture:

Grilling

Grilling is a popular choice for its smoky flavor:

Preheat: Preheat your grill to high heat (around 450-500°F).
Oil the Grates: Use a paper towel dipped in oil to grease the grill grates to prevent sticking.
Cook: Place the patties on the grill and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, depending on desired doneness.
Rest: Let the patties rest for a few minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Stovetop

Cooking burgers on the stovetop is convenient and delivers a great sear:

Preheat: Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
Oil the Pan: Add a small amount of oil to the pan to prevent sticking.
Cook: Place the patties in the pan and cook for 3-5 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 160°F for well-done.

Baking

Baking is a less common method but can be useful for cooking multiple burgers at once:

Preheat: Preheat your oven to 400°F.
Prepare a Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
Cook: Place the patties on the baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Cheese and Toppings

Adding cheese and toppings can elevate your burger to the next level:

Cheese

The most popular cheeses for burgers include:

American: Melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture.
Cheddar: Offers a sharp, tangy flavor.
Swiss: Known for its mild, nutty taste.
Blue Cheese: For a bold, distinctive flavor.

Place the cheese on the patty during the last minute of cooking to allow it to melt.

Classic Toppings

Here are some classic burger toppings:

Lettuce: Adds a fresh, crisp texture.
Tomato: Slices of juicy tomato offer a refreshing contrast.
Onions: Raw, grilled, or caramelized onions add different layers of flavor.
Pickles: Provide a tangy, crunchy bite.
Condiments: Ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise are traditional choices.

Assembling the Burger

Assembling the burger is where you bring all the components together:

Toast the Buns: Lightly toasting the buns on the grill or in a pan adds a subtle crunch and helps prevent them from becoming soggy.
Layering: Start with the bottom bun, add condiments, followed by lettuce (to prevent the bun from getting soggy), the patty with melted cheese, and then additional toppings. Finish with the top bun.

Advanced Techniques

For those looking to take their burger game to the next level, consider these advanced techniques:

Stuffed Burgers

Stuffed burgers add surprise and flavor in every bite:

Create a Pocket: Flatten two smaller patties and place your chosen filling (e.g., cheese, mushrooms, jalapeños) in the center of one.
Seal: Place the second patty on top and seal the edges thoroughly to prevent leakage.

Blending Meats

Blending different types of meat can create a unique flavor profile:

Beef and Pork: Combining ground beef with ground pork adds a sweet, rich flavor.
Beef and Lamb: This blend introduces a gamey taste that pairs well with Mediterranean spices.

Marinating the Patties

Marinating can infuse the patties with additional flavors:

Marinade: Use ingredients like soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and herbs.
Time: Let the patties marinate in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours before cooking.

The journey to creating the perfect burger is filled with choices and techniques, each offering its own unique results. From selecting the right ground beef to experimenting with advanced methods, the art of burger-making is both simple and complex. The real magic happens when you find the perfect combination that suits your taste, creating a memorable experience with every bite.