Grilling burgers like a pro is surprisingly simple – and my easy guide will show you how to make delicious, juicy burgers on the grill that turn out perfect every time.
If using a charcoal grill, light the briquettes until covered in ash, and place the burger patties evenly on the grill, then cover with the cooking grate. If using a gas grill, heat one set of burners to a high heat and leave the rest cool. Make sure to scrape the cooking grate clean before using to prevent burning.
Form The Patties
Divide up the meat into uniformly sized balls. Then, press them down to form a thick patty. In the center of each burger patty, use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make an indent – when you’re grilling burgers, this keeps them flat. If you want flatter patties, don’t make an indent.
Sprinkle the salt and pepper over the patties.
Grill
Add the burger patties onto the hot grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side. Don’t press down with a spatula – this can squeeze out all the delicious juices.
Then, flip the burgers and grill on the opposite side for a further 3-4 minutes. Thinner patties will cook quicker – they should be ready to flip at the 2- minute mark.
Using a meat thermometer, stick the tip into the center of the burger. When well done, it should have an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). If lower, continue to cook burgers on the grill until it’s safe to eat.
After the burgers are fully cooked, remove them from the grill grates and set aside to rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the burgers moist.
Assemble The Burgers
While flipping the burgers, brush both sides of the hamburger buns with olive oil and place them on the grill to toast for 1-2 minutes .
If using, during the last minute of grilling add a slice of your favorite cheese on top of each patty and allow to melt.
Spread your favorite sauce or condiments on the base of the burger bun, then top with the hamburger patty and add your favorite toppings. Place the other half of the bun on top and serve.
Notes
Expert Tips for Perfect Burgers:
Lean Meat: Choosing 80% lean, 20% fat beef will give you juicy burgers without any extra grease. It tends to have the most flavor.
Don’t Overmix: When handled too much, ground meat can become rubbery and dry. When adding the seasonings, just mix gently until everything is combined before shaping into patties.
Add The Indent: Once you’ve shaped the patties, making the indent will ensure they don’t balloon in size. It’ll also help it to cook evenly.
Preheat The Grill and Flip Once: If your grill is properly pre-heated, the burgers will start to cook immediately and have a beautiful sear on the outside. This will seal in the juices. And remember to only flip once – otherwise, you’ll dry out your hamburgers.
Resting Time: Allowing your burgers before serving them gives the juicy insides a chance to redistribute across the whole burger and will deliver the ultimate flavor – so don’t skip this step!