Cooking a burger in a frying pan without burning it on the outside requires a bit of attention and technique. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you achieve a perfectly cooked burger:
Ingredients:
- Ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat is a good option for juicy burgers)
- Salt and pepper (or your preferred seasonings)
- Burger buns
- Preferred toppings and condiments (lettuce, tomato, cheese, onions, ketchup, mustard, etc.)
Equipment:
Instructions:
Prepare the patties: Divide the ground beef into evenly-sized portions and gently shape them into patties, about 3/4 to 1-inch thick. Press a slight indentation into the center of each patty to prevent it from puffing up while cooking.
Season the patties: Sprinkle salt and pepper (or any preferred seasonings) on both sides of the patties. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika for additional flavor.
Preheat the frying pan: Place the frying pan over medium-high heat and allow it to preheat for a few minutes. A cast-iron pan is an excellent choice as it distributes heat evenly.
Add the patties to the pan: Place the seasoned patties in the preheated pan. Make sure to leave enough space between them, so they cook evenly without touching each other.
Avoid pressing down on the patties: While cooking, refrain from pressing down on the patties with your spatula. This can release the juices and result in a drier burger.
Monitor the cooking time: Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on one side. Avoid moving them around too much. You can slightly adjust the heat if necessary to prevent burning.
Flip the patties: Gently flip the burgers using a spatula and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes on the other side. Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the patties and your desired level of doneness.
Check the internal temperature: If you're uncertain about the doneness of the burgers, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, the temperature should be around 130-135°F (54-57°C), medium around 140-145°F (60-63°C), and medium-well around 150-155°F (66-68°C).
Rest the patties: Once the burgers reach your preferred level of doneness, remove them from the pan and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier burger.
Assemble the burgers: Toast the burger buns lightly if desired, and then assemble your burgers with your preferred toppings and condiments.
By following these steps, you should be able to cook a delicious burger in a frying pan without burning the outside while ensuring it's cooked to your desired level of doneness. Enjoy!