Grilling burgers is a summertime staple, but it can be tricky to know just how long to cook them for. Overcooking can lead to dry, tough burgers, while undercooking can lead to foodborne illness.
The key to grilling the perfect burger is to use a meat thermometer to ensure that it has reached the safe internal temperature of 160°F. This temperature ensures that any harmful bacteria have been killed, and the burger is safe to eat.
When grilling burgers, it’s best to start with a preheated grill. A medium-high heat is ideal for cooking burgers, around 375-450°F. Place the burgers on the grill and do not press down on them with a spatula, as this can cause the juices to escape and result in a dry burger.
For a standard 1/4-inch thick burger, it should take about 4-5 minutes per side to reach an internal temperature of 160°F. If you prefer your burgers to be more well-done, cook them for an additional minute or two per side.
Thicker burgers or those made with leaner cuts of meat may take longer to cook. A 1/2-inch thick burger may take 6-7 minutes per side to reach an internal temperature of 160°F. Keep in mind that the cooking time will also depend on the type of grill you’re using, so it’s important to monitor the temperature and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
In summary, grilling burgers can be a bit tricky, but by using a meat thermometer and monitoring the internal temperature, you can ensure that your burgers are cooked to perfection. Remember to preheat your grill, cook the burgers on medium-high heat and don’t press down on them with a spatula. A standard 1/4-inch thick burger should take about 4-5 minutes per side to reach 160°F internal temperature.