The Perfect Basic Burger is a classic American favorite, known for its simplicity and rich, meaty flavor. Ground beef is seasoned generously with salt and pepper, then cooked to perfection on a grill or skillet. Served on toasted buns, you can customize your burger with a variety of toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, cheese, and condiments, to suit your personal taste. Whether you’re grilling in the backyard or making a quick dinner, these burgers are sure to satisfy. They’re easy to prepare and always a hit at any meal!
The Perfect Basic Burger is a must-have for any burger lover. This recipe focuses on simplicity, allowing the natural flavors of the seasoned ground beef to shine through. Whether you prefer it with classic toppings or your own custom twist, this burger is sure to satisfy. Let’s start by gathering the ingredients you’ll need to create this timeless meal.
INGREDIENTS
- Ground beef: 1 pound of 85% lean ground beef, ideal for a juicy yet not overly fatty burger.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning the patties and bringing out the natural beef flavor.
- Hamburger buns: 4 buns, lightly toasted to add a nice crunch and prevent sogginess from the toppings.
- Optional toppings: Choose from lettuce, tomato slices, onion slices, pickles, cheese slices, and condiments like ketchup, mustard, and mayo to customize your burger to your liking.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Begin by dividing the ground beef into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty, ensuring they are slightly larger than your buns, as the burgers will shrink during cooking.
- Step 2:
- Generously season both sides of each patty with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning is key to enhancing the natural flavor of the beef.
- Step 3:
- Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the patties on the cooking surface.
- Step 4:
- Cook the patties for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, depending on your desired level of doneness. For medium, cook until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Avoid pressing down on the patties while cooking to retain their juices.
- Step 5:
- While the burgers are cooking, toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in the skillet until they are lightly golden.
- Step 6:
- Assemble your burgers by placing the cooked patties on the toasted buns. Add your choice of toppings such as lettuce, tomato, cheese, and condiments. Serve immediately for the best flavor.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the burgers immediately after assembling for the best flavor and texture. Pair them with classic sides like fries, a fresh salad, or chips for a complete meal.
- If you have leftover cooked patties, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.
- Leftover uncooked patties can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, or frozen for up to 3 months.
Helpful Notes
- To prevent your burgers from puffing up in the center while cooking, press a small indentation into the middle of each patty with your thumb before placing them on the grill or skillet.
- For an extra flavorful twist, you can mix in a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or garlic powder into the ground beef before shaping the patties.
- If you prefer a cheeseburger, add a slice of cheese to the patties during the last minute of cooking, covering with a lid to melt the cheese perfectly.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Gordon Ramsay recommends using brioche buns for a soft, buttery contrast to the savory beef patty.
- Chef Bobby Flay advises seasoning the patties just before cooking to avoid drawing out too much moisture from the meat.
- Chef Jamie Oliver suggests adding a thin slice of raw onion on the bottom bun for an extra layer of crunch and flavor.