Description
This Perfect Homemade Burger recipe delivers juicy, flavorful beef patties seasoned with garlic and onion powder, cooked to medium doneness, and served on toasted buns with your choice of fresh toppings and optional cheese. Easy to prepare and perfect for any burger lover looking for that classic taste made from scratch.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Seasonings
- 1 pound Ground Beef (80% lean) – Provides optimal flavor and juiciness.
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt – Enhances natural flavors.
- 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper – Adds a subtle kick.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder – Adds depth to the flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder – Contributes sweet and tangy flavor.
Buns and Toppings
- 4 pieces Burger Buns (high-quality like brioche or whole wheat)
- To taste Toppings (lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions) – Customize as per preference.
- 4 slices Cheese (optional) – Cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack.
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat: Place the ground beef in a large mixing bowl and gently break it apart with your hands to loosen the meat for even seasoning.
- Season the Mixture: Sprinkle kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder evenly over the meat and mix gently to combine without overworking the beef, which ensures tender patties.
- Form the Patties: Divide the seasoned meat into four equal portions and shape each into a patty about 3/4 inch thick, making a slight indentation in the center to help them cook evenly.
- Preheat the Cooking Surface: Heat your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat until hot to the touch to ensure proper searing and flavor development.
- Cook the Burgers: Place the patties on the preheated grill or skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side without pressing down, allowing a crust to form.
- Flip and Continue Cooking: Flip the burgers carefully and cook for another 4-5 minutes to reach medium doneness. Add cheese slices on top during the last minute if using, allowing them to melt.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the patties reaches 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
- Rest the Burgers: Remove patties from heat and let them rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier burger.
- Prepare the Buns: Toast the burger buns on the grill or skillet until golden brown and slightly crisp to add texture and warmth.
- Assemble Your Burger: Layer the toasted bun bottoms with the beef patties, your choice of toppings like lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, and then top with the bun lids. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
- Do not overmix the meat to keep burgers tender.
- Indenting the patties helps them cook evenly and prevents puffing in the center.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure safe internal temperature.
- Customize toppings and cheese types to your preference.
- Letting burgers rest before serving helps retain their juiciness.
