Skip the grill and discover a new way to make the juiciest and most delicious burgers right on your stovetop. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can create classic hamburgers or cheeseburgers, ready to be topped with all your favorite fixings. Cooked to perfection, these burgers are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. So, let’s dive in and learn exactly how to cook burgers on the stove that are juicy and flavorful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Burgers are a favorite dinner choice for many households because everyone loves them! While grilling is often the go-to method, cooking burgers on the stovetop offers equally juicy and amazing results. Whether it’s raining or cold outside, stovetop burgers are a quick and easy alternative that requires minimal cleanup. Plus, they develop a delicious outer crust, reminiscent of restaurant-quality burgers cooked on a flat-top grill.
Ingredients for Stovetop Burgers
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients, you can achieve mouth-watering burgers. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ground Beef: Choose lean fresh ground chuck (80/20 fat ratio) for the best flavor and texture.
- Salt and Pepper: The classic seasonings that enhance the natural taste of the meat.
- Rolls: Opt for toasted brioche buns or any other personal favorites.
- Toppings: Personalize your burgers with American cheese, grilled onions, sliced tomatoes, crispy lettuce, and your preferred condiments.
Find the complete list of ingredients and amounts in the recipe card below.
How to Cook Hamburgers on the Stove
- Mix up the Meat: Combine ground beef with salt and pepper. Gently combine without overmixing. Divide the meat into four portions and gently flatten each portion into half-inch-thick patties. Make an indent in the center of each patty with your thumb.
- Cook the Patties: Preheat a cast-iron skillet with a tablespoon of vegetable oil. Place the patties in the skillet and cook on one side until browned with a nice crust. Flip the patties over and continue cooking until they reach your desired level of doneness.
- Assemble the Burgers: Optional – Add slices of American cheese to each patty, remove the pan from the heat, and cover it with a lid to let the cheese melt. Then place the patties on toasted rolls and top them with your favorite condiments and toppings.
Recipe Tips
- To shape the patties, make an indent in the center to help them cook evenly and stay flat.
- Make the patties slightly larger than your buns, as they will shrink during cooking.
- Cheese is always a tasty addition! Top your burgers with your favorite cheese.
- Avoid overmixing the burger mixture for the best texture.
- Check the doneness of the burgers using a cooking thermometer inserted into the center of each patty.
- For a low-carb option, skip the buns and wrap your burgers in lettuce leaves instead.
What Temperature Should Burgers Be Cooked To?
According to the FDA, hamburgers should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F/71°C (well-done and no longer pink) to eliminate any risk of harmful bacteria. However, if you prefer your burgers cooked to a lower temperature, ensure you use very fresh beef.
How Long Do You Cook Stovetop Burgers?
Looking for the ideal cooking time for stovetop burgers? Use this guideline as a starting point and check the temperature with a thermometer for accuracy:
- Medium-Rare (130-135°F/57°C): Cook for 3 minutes per side.
- Medium (145°F/63°C): Cook for 3-4 minutes per side.
- Medium-Well (150-155°F/68°C): Cook for 4-5 minutes per side.
- Well-Done (160°F/71°C): Cook for 5 minutes per side.
How to Toast Hamburger Buns
For the perfect burger experience, butter the buns and toast them in a skillet or broil them until lightly golden brown. This will help seal the bread and prevent it from getting soggy under your toppings.
Easy Homemade Burger Sauce Recipe
Just like your favorite fast food joints, you can create your own “special sauce” to accompany your stovetop burgers. All you need is:
- ¼ cup mayo
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon sweet relish
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon honey
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Mix all the ingredients together, and you’ll have a tangy and creamy burger sauce ready to enjoy. It can be used immediately or stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Storing and Reheating Tips for Stovetop Burgers
Let your burgers cool down to room temperature after cooking, then store them in a zip-top bag or airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Leftover burgers can be enjoyed cold, added to salads, or wrapped in a mayo or burger sauce-coated wrap with lettuce and tomato. To reheat, warm the burgers in a skillet on the stovetop. If necessary, add a bit of water to the pan, cover it with a lid, and ensure they don’t dry out or overcook.
How to Freeze Burger Patties
Once cooked, you can wrap each cooled patty with foil and place them in a freezer bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. However, it’s best to add the cheese when you’re ready to eat them.
What to Serve With Stovetop Hamburgers
Pair these tasty burgers with Homemade French Fries for the ultimate delicious combo. Alternatively, you can opt for Air Fryer Tater Tots or creamy homemade Stovetop Mac and Cheese.
Recipe FAQs
Now that you’ve mastered the art of making the best burgers on the stove, you’re ready to serve these delicious creations anytime. Save this recipe for an easy dinner option that will wow your family and friends!
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