Description
Master the art of the classic grilled burger with this simple, tested recipe. Using high-quality ground chuck and basic seasoning, these juicy, charred patties are ready in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for summer evenings and backyard parties.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 ratio, preferably chuck)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 4 to 6 burger buns (Brioche or Potato recommended)
- 4 to 6 slices cheese (American, Cheddar, or Swiss, optional)
- Neutral oil or melted butter (for greasing grill grates)
- Toppings: Fresh lettuce, sliced tomatoes, red onions, pickles
- Condiments: Ketchup, mustard, mayo, or aioli
Instructions
- Prepare the grill by heating to high (400-450°F) for 10-15 minutes. Oil the grates thoroughly with a paper towel dipped in oil to prevent sticking.
- Divide the ground beef into 4 to 6 equal portions. Gently roll each into a ball and press into a ¾-inch thick patty. Make a small indent in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent puffing.
- Season both sides of the patties generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (about ½ tsp of each per patty) just before grilling.
- Place patties on the hot grill over direct heat. Close the lid and cook for 4-5 minutes without moving them to develop a char.
- Flip the burgers carefully with a spatula. Cook for another 4-5 minutes. If using cheese, add a slice during the last minute and close the lid to melt.
- Check the internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer; it should reach 160°F (71°C). Remove burgers from the grill immediately once done.
- Transfer burgers to a plate and let them rest for 2-3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- While burgers rest, toast the buns cut-side down on the grill for about 30 seconds. Optionally brush with butter.
- Assemble burgers with toppings and condiments on the toasted buns. Serve immediately.
Notes
Do not press down on the patties while cooking, as this squeezes out juices. Keep the meat cold until it hits the grill to prevent fat from rendering too quickly. Use a two-zone fire if using charcoal for better control. Always use a thermometer to ensure food safety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger patty with
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 30
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 20
Keywords: grilled burgers, classic burger recipe, summer grilling, easy dinner, ground beef recipes, backyard BBQ, juicy burgers