I make these classic juicy homemade beef burgers whenever I want something comforting, flavorful, and satisfying. They are perfectly seasoned, tender, and made with halal-certified ground beef, which makes them ideal for backyard cookouts, family dinners, or a simple burger night at home. I love how simple ingredients come together to create a truly delicious and juicy burger every time.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 ½ pounds ground beef (halal-certified, 80/20 blend recommended)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon soy sauce
4 hamburger buns
4 slices cheddar cheese (optional)
Lettuce leaves
Tomato slices
Red onion slices
Pickles
Ketchup and mustard, for serving
Directions
I start by preheating a grill or skillet to medium-high heat so it is hot and ready for cooking.
In a large bowl, I gently combine the ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and soy sauce. I mix just until everything is incorporated, making sure not to overwork the meat because that can make the burgers tough.
I divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties about ¾-inch thick. I press a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from puffing up while cooking.
I place the patties on the hot grill or skillet and cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes per side for medium doneness. If I prefer them more well-done, I cook them a little longer.
If I want cheeseburgers, I add a slice of cheddar cheese during the last minute of cooking and let it melt beautifully over the patties.
While the burgers finish cooking, I lightly toast the hamburger buns on the grill for 1 to 2 minutes until they turn golden.
To assemble, I place each patty on a bun and add lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickles, ketchup, and mustard just the way I like. I serve them immediately while they are hot and juicy.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Calories: 520 kcal per serving
Variations
I sometimes switch things up by adding smoked paprika or a dash of chili powder for a slightly smoky flavor. When I want extra richness, I mix a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce into the beef.
For a lighter option, I serve the patties wrapped in lettuce instead of buns. I also enjoy experimenting with different cheeses like Swiss or pepper jack for a unique twist. Caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms make a delicious gourmet-style topping when I want something a little more elevated.
Storage/Reheating
When I have leftovers, I store the cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I keep the buns and toppings separate to maintain freshness.
To reheat, I warm the patties in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until heated through. I can also microwave them in short intervals, but I prefer the skillet method to keep them juicy. If I freeze the cooked patties, I wrap them tightly and store them for up to 2 months, then thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
How do I keep my burgers juicy?
I make sure to use an 80/20 beef blend and avoid overmixing the meat. I also press a small indentation in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly.
Can I cook these burgers without a grill?
Yes, I often cook them in a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan on the stovetop. I still get a flavorful crust and juicy center.
How do I know when the burgers are done?
I check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. For medium doneness, I look for about 160°F for ground beef to ensure it is fully cooked and safe.
Can I prepare the patties in advance?
Yes, I shape the patties and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This makes meal prep easier when I am hosting.
What toppings work best with these burgers?
I enjoy classic toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles. Sometimes I add avocado, sautéed mushrooms, or different cheeses depending on what I am craving.
Conclusion
I find these classic juicy homemade beef burgers to be the ultimate comfort food. They are simple, flavorful, and perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, I can create tender, juicy burgers that everyone enjoys. Whenever I want a reliable and satisfying meal, this is the recipe I turn to.
📖 Recipe:
Classic Juicy Homemade Beef Burgers
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- Author: Cheryl
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers
- Diet: Halal
Description
These classic juicy homemade beef burgers are perfectly seasoned, tender, and made with halal-certified ground beef. Simple ingredients come together to create flavorful, satisfying burgers ideal for cookouts, family dinners, or an easy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
1 ½ pounds halal-certified ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon soy sauce
4 hamburger buns
4 slices cheddar cheese (optional)
Lettuce leaves
Tomato slices
Red onion slices
Pickles
Ketchup and mustard, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat a grill or skillet to medium-high heat.
- In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and soy sauce. Mix just until incorporated without overworking the meat.
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape into patties about ¾-inch thick. Press a slight indentation in the center of each patty.
- Place the patties on the hot grill or skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side for medium doneness, or longer if desired.
- If making cheeseburgers, add a slice of cheddar cheese during the last minute of cooking and allow it to melt.
- Lightly toast the hamburger buns on the grill for 1 to 2 minutes until golden.
- Assemble the burgers by placing each patty on a bun and adding lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickles, ketchup, and mustard. Serve immediately.
Notes
Use an 80/20 beef blend to ensure juicy and tender burgers.
Avoid overmixing the meat to prevent tough patties.
Pressing an indentation in the center helps the burgers cook evenly.
Cook to an internal temperature of 160°F for safe consumption.
Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling or Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
