BA Test Kitchen Answers 19 Common Burger Questions _ Bon Appétit

Making Grilled Burgers Without Overcooking Them

I was worried that making grilled burgers without spending like a reasonable amount of time on the grill would be unnecessary, but I didn't see why not. What's the best way to make grilled burgers that won't dry out or get too charred? To achieve this, it's essential to have a medium heat and ensure you have some fat in the mixture. The burger will continue to cook even after it's flipped, so it's crucial to flip it at the right time.

To get the perfect grill marks without overcooking the burgers, you want to use a cast iron pan on the grill. This way, the burgers can crisp up in their own fat while still getting that nice smoke wafting off the grill. If you have a gas grill and don't benefit from the smoke, simply place a Lodge griddle, like a pancake griddle, directly on the grill and cook the burger straight on it.

Cooking Burgers: Grill or Fry?

I'm Team fry when it comes to burgers – I love the idea of a smash burger that's technically a fried burger. However, I also appreciate a well-grilled burger. While grilling can add great marks to the patty, I don't think it's necessary for a burger. A flat top or a pan allows for direct contact with the heat source and gives you a nice crust on the burger.

The Best Method of Topping a Burger

When it comes to topping a burger, it's essential to consider how the toppings will interact with each other. Too much moisture can cause the burger to slide out of the bun. To avoid this issue, don't overdo it with wet and slippery toppings like lettuce or onions.

A simple solution is to use a bread that complements the burger, such as a brioche or pretzel bun. If you need to keep the burger in the bun, consider adding a small skewer or wooden pick to hold it together. It's also essential to balance toppings so they don't cause the burger to become too wet.

Adding Cheese to the Patty

When it comes to adding cheese to the patty, timing is crucial. For smash burgers, add the cheese right when you flip the patty, as it won't spend much time on the grill. If you're cooking a thicker burger, cook it for a few more minutes before adding the cheese.

The ideal temperature for cooking burgers depends on the size of the patty and personal preference. Cooking at too high a temperature can cause the burger to become overcooked or dry. Be reasonable when adding cheese to avoid overwhelming the burger with too much melted goodness.

Vegetarian Burgers

While opinions may vary, two vegetarian burger recipes stand out: Brooks Headley's Superior Burger Recipe and Chris Morocco's recipe from Bon Appetit. Both are exceptional and worth trying. Whether you're a fan of classic veggie burgers or more adventurous options, there's a perfect burger out there for everyone.

Summer Burgers

Burgers are an excellent summer food – juicy, flavorful, and easy to enjoy outdoors. While some people may opt to eat fewer burgers during the warmer months, others see it as the perfect excuse to indulge in their favorite summertime foods. I spent two years working at Shake Shack and often found myself covered in airborne beef fat after a long night of work, so I have to be in the right mood when enjoying my summer burger.