Grilling burgers is one of the most enjoyable and rewarding summer activities! Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just cooking for the family, mastering the art of the burger can elevate your grilling game. In this guide, we’ll explore three diverse examples that show you how to grill burgers like a pro. So let’s fire up the grill and get started!
This is the quintessential burger that everyone loves. Perfect for any casual gathering or family dinner!
To make a classic cheeseburger, start with high-quality ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio is best). Form 1/4-pound patties, making a slight indentation in the center to prevent puffing during cooking. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Cook the burgers for about 3-4 minutes on one side. Flip them gently and add a slice of American cheese on top. Grill for another 3-4 minutes, or until your desired doneness is reached, usually about 160°F for medium.
Serve on toasted hamburger buns with your choice of toppings like lettuce, tomato, pickles, ketchup, and mustard. Don’t forget the fries on the side!
For those who love a kick, this spicy jalapeño burger is a game-changer! It’s great for summer cookouts when you want to impress your guests.
Start with the same high-quality ground beef (80/20 is ideal). Finely chop fresh jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat) and mix them into the beef along with a tablespoon of taco seasoning. Form into patties, keeping them slightly thicker in the middle.
Preheat your grill to medium heat. Grill the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. In the last minute of cooking, add pepper jack cheese on top to melt.
Serve on a toasted bun with avocado slices, lettuce, and a spicy mayo (mix mayonnaise with sriracha for an easy version). This burger is sure to be a hit!
Not everyone is a meat-eater, and that’s where a delicious veggie burger comes in! This example is perfect for vegetarian guests or anyone looking to reduce their meat intake.
For this veggie burger, you can use canned black beans as a base. Mash one can of black beans in a bowl, and then mix in 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of chopped onions, 1/4 cup of corn, and your favorite spices (like cumin and garlic powder). Form into patties and let them chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to firm up.
Preheat your grill to medium heat. Cook the veggie patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side. They should be crisp on the outside but soft inside.
Serve on whole wheat buns with fresh avocado, sliced tomatoes, and a dollop of hummus or tzatziki sauce for a refreshing twist.
Now that you have these examples of The ultimate guide to grilling burgers, get ready to impress your friends and family at your next BBQ! Happy grilling!