Best Way To Pan Cook A Burger
There are a lot of ways to cook burgers, but pan cooking is one of the easiest and most convenient methods. Whether you're cooking burgers for a small gathering or just for yourself, pan cooking is a great way to get delicious, juicy burgers every time. Here's how to pan cook a burger:
Choose the Right Meat
The first step to cooking a great burger is choosing the right meat. Look for ground beef that has a good balance of fat and lean meat, such as an 80/20 or 85/15 blend. This will ensure that your burgers are juicy and flavorful.
Form the Patties
Once you have your meat, it's time to form the patties. Divide the meat into equal portions and shape them into patties that are about ¾ inch thick. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can make the burgers tough.
Season the Patties
Before you cook the burgers, season them with salt and pepper or any other seasonings you prefer. Be sure to season both sides of the patties evenly.
Preheat the Pan
Preheat a nonstick pan over medium heat for a few minutes. You want the pan to be hot, but not smoking.
Cook the Burgers
Once the pan is hot, add the burgers to the pan. Cook them for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare burgers, or longer if you prefer your burgers well done.
Add Cheese (Optional)
If you want to add cheese to your burgers, do it during the last minute of cooking. Place a slice of cheese on top of each burger and cover the pan with a lid until the cheese is melted.
Rest the Burgers
Once the burgers are cooked, remove them from the pan and let them rest for a few minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier burger.
Serve and Enjoy
Now, it's time to serve and enjoy your delicious burgers! You can serve them on buns with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and condiments.
Tips for Perfectly Pan Cooked Burgers
Here are some tips for getting perfectly pan cooked burgers every time:
- Don't overcrowd the pan. Cook the burgers in batches if necessary.
- Avoid pressing down on the burgers with a spatula. This will release the juices and make the burgers dry.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the burgers. They should reach a minimum of 160°F for food safety.
- Let the burgers rest before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
In Conclusion
Pan cooking is a simple and easy way to cook delicious burgers. With the right meat, seasoning, and cooking technique, you can get juicy and flavorful burgers every time. Give it a try and enjoy!