The Ultimate Guide to The Best Grilled Burgers

As summer approaches, the need to get outside and throw something on to your grill will grow, and burgers are the perfect early summer grilling meat that everyone loves.

Grilling burgers is a simple yet delicious way to cook ground beef, creating juicy and flavorful patties with a charred exterior. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just whipping up a quick dinner, grilling burgers is a surefire way to satisfy your cravings. But with so many different techniques and recipes out there, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. In this article, we’ll cover the basics of grilling burgers, from selecting the right meat to perfecting your grill technique. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be grilling mouthwatering burgers all summer long.

What Type of Grill For Burgers

Normally when someone asks me what type of grill to use, I will hands down say charcoal.  You simply cannot beat the flavor of cooking with a charcoal grill.  However, when it comes to burgers, I’m not so quick to respond, and I’ll often throw the Blackstone griddle in for consideration.  So If you’re wondering whether to use charcoal or a Blackstone griddle for grilling burgers, here are some things to consider:

Charcoal grilling is a traditional method that many people enjoy for the smoky flavor it imparts to the burgers. Charcoal grills are also great for cooking burgers over high heat, which helps create a delicious char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. However, charcoal grills can be more difficult to use than other types of grills, and they require more time and attention to set up and maintain the right temperature. My go to charcoal grill is my trusty Chargriller Akorn, once you get some practice in, it makes grilling on charcoal a breeze.

Blackstone griddles, on the other hand, offer a different kind of cooking experience. These griddles are flat and have a large surface area, which makes them ideal for cooking burgers evenly and quickly. The flat surface also means that you don’t have to worry about burgers falling through the grates, which can be a concern with some types of grills. When you think of a Blackstone, think of a line cook. You are able to cook a lot of food on it at one time, and can give that slider or smash burger taste that comes typically from your local dives. Additionally, Blackstone griddles can be used for a wide range of other dishes, such as pancakes, eggs, and stir-fries.

Ultimately, the choice between charcoal and Blackstone grilling comes down to personal preference. If you love the smoky flavor of charcoal-grilled burgers and enjoy the traditional grilling experience, a charcoal grill may be the way to go. If you prefer a faster, more convenient method of grilling with a large cooking surface, a Blackstone griddle might be the better choice.

Selecting the Right Meat

Selecting the right meat is crucial for making delicious burgers. Here are some tips for choosing the best meat for your burger patties:

Look for the right fat content: The ideal fat content for burger meat is around 80/20 (meat to fat ratio). This will help keep the burgers moist and juicy during cooking, while also adding flavor. However, if you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use ground beef with a lower fat content, such as 90/10 or 93/7.

Choose fresh meat: Look for fresh, high-quality meat from a reputable source. Avoid using meat that has been sitting in the store for too long or has a greyish color. If possible, buy your meat from a local butcher who grinds the meat fresh in-house.

Consider the type of meat: Ground beef is the most common choice for burgers, but you can also use other types of meat, such as ground turkey, chicken, or pork. Just be aware that these meats have different fat contents and may require different cooking times and techniques.

Avoid overworking the meat: When forming the burger patties, avoid overworking the meat, as this can make the burgers tough. Use your hands to gently shape the meat into patties, being careful not to pack them too tightly.

By selecting the right meat, you can ensure that your burgers turn out juicy, flavorful, and delicious. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of meat and fat contents to find your perfect burger blend.

5 Tips for Grilling Burgers

If you want to create the perfect grilled burgers, follow these 5 tips:

1. Start with high-quality ingredients like fresh ground beef and ripe tomatoes.
2. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat before cooking.
3. Gently form the meat into patties and create a slight indentation in the center of each patty.
4. Avoid overcooking the burgers by cooking them for 4-6 minutes per side and using a meat thermometer to ensure a safe internal temperature. 160 degrees is what is recommended on ground beef for a safe temperature.
5. Don’t press down on the burgers with a spatula, as this can cause them to lose their juices.

Toppings Options for Grilled Burgers

When it comes to toppings for grilled burgers, the options are endless. Here are some ideas for delicious burger toppings that you can try:

1. Cheese: Add a slice of your favorite cheese, such as cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack, during the last minute of cooking to melt on top of the burger.
2. Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor to your burger. Top your burger with a few strips of cooked bacon for a delicious addition.
3. Avocado: Add some healthy fats and creaminess to your burger with slices of ripe avocado.
4. Caramelized onions: Cook sliced onions in a pan until they are caramelized and sweet, then add them to your burger for a delicious burst of flavor.
5. Mushrooms: Saute sliced mushrooms in butter and garlic until they are tender, then add them to your burger for an earthy, umami flavor.
6. Fried egg: Top your burger with a fried egg for a protein-packed, breakfast-inspired twist.
7. Jalapenos: For a spicy kick, add sliced jalapenos to your burger.
8. BBQ sauce: Brush your burger with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of cooking for a tangy, smoky flavor.
9. Pickles: Add a few slices of pickles for a refreshing, tangy crunch.
10. Guacamole: Top your burger with homemade guacamole for a flavorful, Mexican-inspired twist.

By experimenting with different toppings, you can create your own unique burger creations that are sure to impress.

An All American Classic Grilled Cheese Burger Recipe

The much loved all American cheeseburger is a classic staple on the grill throughout the summer.  Better yet, it’s an easy recipe to follow and grill up when time is short, or for hosting a party with friends.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 slices of cheddar cheese
• 4 hamburger buns
• 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 4 tablespoons ketchup
• 4 lettuce leaves
• 4 tomato slices
• 4 red onion slices

How to make grilled cheeseburger

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, and pepper. Mix well, and form the mixture into 4 patties.
• Place the burgers on the grill, and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. Instant read thermometers like this one are a must for all cooks, ensuring the most accurate temperature readings.
• During the last minute of cooking, add a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each burger to melt.
• While the burgers are cooking, toast the hamburger buns on the grill.
• Assemble the burgers: Spread 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise on the bottom bun of each burger. Top with 1 tablespoon of ketchup, a lettuce leaf, a tomato slice, a red onion slice, and the burger patty with melted cheese. Add the top bun and serve immediately.

Alternatives to Beef

As amazing as a ground beef burger can be, there are also other options when it comes to burgers.  One of our favorites is a Greek twist to a burger, the Mediterranean lamb burger. 

Or, if you are looking for a healthy option, a go to for us is a jalapeno chicken burger wrapped in lettuce.

Side Dishes to go with Grilled Burgers

When it comes to grilling burgers, serving the right sides can really enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some delicious  side dishes to serve with your grilled burgers:

1. French fries: Classic, crispy, and always a crowd-pleaser, French fries are a perfect side dish for grilled burgers. You can make them from scratch or buy frozen fries and cook them in the oven or on the grill.
2. Potato salad: Creamy and tangy, potato salad is a classic summer side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled burgers. Make it ahead of time and let the flavors meld for an even better taste.
3. Coleslaw: Cool, crunchy, and refreshing, coleslaw is a great side dish for hot summer days. You can make it with a classic vinegar-based dressing or a creamy mayonnaise-based dressing.
4. Grilled vegetables: Grilled vegetables like corn on the cob, zucchini, and bell peppers make a healthy and flavorful side dish for burgers. Simply toss them in olive oil and seasonings and grill them alongside the burgers.
5. Baked beans: Sweet and savory baked beans are a classic barbecue side dish that pairs perfectly with burgers. You can make them from scratch or buy canned beans and add your own seasonings.
6. Onion rings: Crispy and delicious, onion rings are a great alternative to French fries as a burger side dish. You can make them from scratch or buy frozen onion rings and cook them in the oven or on the grill.
7. Macaroni and cheese: Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting, macaroni and cheese is a perfect side dish for burgers. You can make it from scratch or buy boxed mac and cheese and add your own seasonings

It’s time to Grill Some Burgers !

Grilling burgers in the summertime is a classic American pastime that brings people together to enjoy delicious food and good company. By selecting the right meat, seasoning it to perfection, and grilling it just right, you can create mouth-watering burgers that will be the highlight of any summer gathering. And with the right side dishes, beverages, and desserts, you can elevate the overall meal experience and impress your guests. So fire up the grill, gather your friends and family, and enjoy the delicious taste of summer with perfectly grilled burgers