Perfect Hamburger Recipe
This recipe creates juicy and flavorful hamburgers that are sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground chuck (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Hamburger buns (toasted, optional)
- Sliced cheese (optional)
- Your favorite hamburger toppings (lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, etc.)
Cooking Guide:
- Prep the Meat: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground chuck, salt, and pepper. Do not overmix. Overworking the meat will make the burgers tough.
- Form the Patties: Divide the meat mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty that’s slightly wider than your hamburger bun (they will shrink as they cook). Make a dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to help prevent them from puffing up in the middle while cooking.
- Heat It Up: Preheat your grill or cast-iron skillet to medium-high heat. Brush the grill or skillet with olive oil.
- Grill the Burgers: Place the patties on the preheated grill or skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, depending on the desired doneness (rare, medium-rare, medium, etc.).
- Cheese Time (Optional): If using cheese, place a slice on each patty during the last minute of cooking to allow it to melt.
- Toast the Buns (Optional): While the burgers are cooking, toast the buns on the grill or in a toaster for a warm and slightly crisp texture.
- Assemble and Enjoy! Place the cooked patty on the bottom bun, top with your favorite toppings, and add the top bun. Devour your delicious creation!
Tips:
- Use high-quality ground beef for the best flavor.
- Don’t press down on the burgers while they cook. This will squeeze out the juices and make them dry.
- Let the cooked burgers rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- Get creative with your toppings! There are endless possibilities to customize your perfect burger.
- This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled to feed a crowd.