How to make burger patties

Picture this: it’s a sunny weekend afternoon, and the smell of grilling meat is wafting through the air. You’ve invited friends over for a backyard barbecue, and everyone is looking forward to juicy, homemade burgers. But as you step into the kitchen, you realize you need to learn how to create the perfect burger patties that will impress your guests. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, making burger patties from scratch can elevate your cooking game and create an unforgettable meal.

To make burger patties, combine ground beef with salt and pepper in a bowl, then shape the mixture into patties using your hands. Cook on a grill or skillet until they reach your desired doneness, about 4-5 minutes per side for medium.

To dive deeper into the process, start with selecting the right meat. Ground beef with a fat content of around 80/20 (80% lean, 20% fat) is ideal for juicy, flavorful patties. In a large bowl, gently mix the ground beef with salt and pepper–adding too many ingredients can toughen the meat. When mixing, handle the meat as little as possible to maintain its texture. Once seasoned, divide the mixture into equal portions (usually about 6-8 ounces for each patty), and shape each portion into a round, flat disc, slightly larger than the buns, since they will shrink while cooking. To avoid a puffed-up center, press a small dimple in the middle of each patty with your thumb. Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat, add a little oil if using a skillet, and cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium doneness, making sure to avoid pressing down on the patties while they cook. Finally, let your patties rest for a few minutes before serving them on fresh buns with your favorite toppings and condiments!