The Perfect Basic Burger

Featured in Center of the plate recipes.

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!
A woman in an apron is preparing a meal in a sunny kitchen filled with fresh vegetables and herbs.
Updated on Mon, 06 Jan 2025 12:14:09 GMT
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The Perfect Basic Burger | myhomemaderecipe.com

A perfectly cooked hamburger is an art form in its simplicity - where quality beef, proper seasoning, and careful technique come together to create something truly magnificent. This recipe focuses on getting the basics absolutely right, letting the natural flavors of the beef shine through.

After years of experimenting with different methods, I've found that respecting the beef and keeping things simple leads to the best results every time.

Essential Ingredients

  • Ground beef: Choose 80/20 for the perfect fat content and flavor.
  • Kosher salt: The larger crystals adhere better to the meat.
  • Fresh black pepper: Grind it yourself for the best flavor.
  • Butter: Creates a beautiful crust and adds richness.
  • Quality buns: Often overlooked but crucial for the perfect burger.

Creating Burger Perfection

Step 1:
Start with cold meat for better handling.
Step 2:
Divide meat without compressing it.
Step 3:
Form patties gently using light pressure.
Step 4:
Make them slightly larger than your buns - they'll shrink.
Step 5:
Create a dimple in the center to prevent puffing.
Step 6:
Season generously just before cooking.
Step 7:
Get your pan properly hot before starting.
Step 8:
Let the crust form before flipping.
Step 9:
Flip only once if possible.
Step 10:
Use a meat thermometer for precision.
Step 11:
Rest the meat before serving.
Step 12:
Warm your buns lightly.
Step 13:
Serve immediately while hot.

Every time I make these burgers, I'm reminded that sometimes the simplest foods require the most attention to detail.

Perfect Pairing Suggestions

  • Hand-cut French fries
  • Crisp dill pickles
  • Cold craft beer
  • Simple green salad

This recipe proves that a great burger doesn't need complicated ingredients or techniques - just respect for the basics.

These burgers remind us that perfection often lies in mastering the fundamentals rather than adding complexity. When done right, few foods are more satisfying than a properly cooked hamburger.

The Perfect Basic Burger

A classic, simple burger made with seasoned ground beef, toasted buns, and optional toppings for a customizable and flavorful meal.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
10 Minutes
Total Time
20 Minutes
By: Zaho

Category: Main Dishes

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 3 Servings

Dietary: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Burger Basics

01 1 pound (450g) ground beef chuck or round
02 Salt and fresh ground black pepper
03 Butter, as needed

→ Optional Toppings

04 Hamburger buns, buttered
05 Lettuce
06 Tomatoes
07 Onion

Instructions

Step 01

Let beef sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes before forming patties.

Step 02

Shape beef into three 5-6 ounce hamburger patties. Make a shallow dimple in center of each with your thumb.

Step 03

Season both sides of patties with salt and pepper.

Step 04

Melt 1 tablespoon butter in cast iron pan over medium heat. Cook patties 3-4 minutes per side (140°F for medium, 160°F for well done).

Step 05

Rest burgers under loose foil for 5 minutes. Serve on buttered buns with desired toppings.

Notes

  1. Don't overwork meat when forming patties
  2. Dimple prevents burger from puffing in middle
  3. Let meat rest before and after cooking

Tools You'll Need

  • Cast iron pan
  • Aluminum foil
  • Meat thermometer (optional)