How to Keep Burgers From Shrinking on the Grill
Burgers are a classic summertime staple, but there’s nothing more frustrating than grilling up a juicy patty only to watch it shrink into a dry, hockey puck. Here are a few tips and tricks to help you keep your burgers plump and juicy.
Before you start grilling, make sure your burgers are cold. Room temperature meat will start to cook on the outside before the inside is done, resulting in a tough, overcooked burger. Cold meat will cook more evenly, giving you a juicy, flavorful patty.
Don’t Overwork the Meat
When you’re forming the patties, don’t overwork the meat. This will make the burgers tough and dense. Just gently shape the meat into patties, handling it as little as possible.
Use a Meat Thermometer
The best way to ensure your burgers are cooked to perfection is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the patty and cook until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit for medium-rare, 165 degrees Fahrenheit for medium, or 170 degrees Fahrenheit for well-done.
Let the Burgers Rest Before Serving
Once the burgers are cooked, let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the patty, resulting in a more juicy, flavorful burger.
Brush the Burgers with Sauce
If you’re using a sauce, brush it on the burgers during the last few minutes of cooking. This will help to keep the burgers moist and flavorful.
Grill Over High Heat
Burgers should be grilled over high heat. This will help to sear the outside of the patty and lock in the juices. Cook the burgers for a few minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness.
Flip the Burgers Only Once
Flipping the burgers too often will not only make them harder to cook evenly, but it will also squeeze out the juices. Aim to cook the burgers on one side, then use a spatula to carefully flip and cook them on the other.
Don’t Press Down on the Burgers
Pressing down on the burgers will compact the meat and make them tough. Use a spatula to gently press the burgers around the edges to prevent them from curling.
Don’t Cook the Burgers Too Long
Burgers will continue to cook off the heat. Overcooking the burgers will make them dry and dense. Cook the burgers just until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness.
Use a Grill Brush to Clean the Grill Grates
A dirty grill grate can cause burgers to stick and shrink. Before grilling, use a grill brush to clean the grill grates of any grease or debris.
FAQ on How to Keep Burgers From Shrinking on the Grill
Here are some frequently asked questions about how to keep burgers from shrinking on the grill.
Q: Why do hamburgers shrink?
A: Hamburgers shrink when the fat and moisture in the meat cook out. Overworking the meat, cooking the burgers over low heat, and pressing down on them can also cause them to shrink.
Q: What is the best way to cook a burger?
A: The best way to cook a burger is over high heat, flipping it only once. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the burgers are cooked to your desired doneness.
Conclusion
By following these tips, you can keep your burgers from shrinking on the grill and enjoy juicy, flavorful burgers all summer long. So next time you’re grilling burgers, give these tips a try. You’ll be glad you did!
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