Name: Classic Juicy Beef Burgers
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended); 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1 tablespoon sauce (such as Worcestershire or steak sauce); 4 burger buns; Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, red onion, pickles, cheese, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise

These classic juicy beef burgers are the kind of meal I crave when I want something simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Made with seasoned ground beef and cooked to a perfect sear, they’re ideal for backyard cookouts or a cozy dinner indoors. Whether I toss them on the grill or use a skillet, they always turn out delicious and hit the spot.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon sauce (such as Worcestershire or steak sauce)

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

4 burger buns

Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, red onion, pickles, cheese, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise

Directions

I start by placing the ground beef in a large mixing bowl. Then I add salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and my favorite sauce.

I gently mix everything with my hands or a fork, making sure not to overwork the meat.

Then I divide the mixture into four equal parts and shape them into patties. I press a small indentation in the center of each one to help them cook evenly.

I preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.

Next I cook the burgers for about 3–4 minutes on one side without pressing down, then flip and cook another 3–4 minutes, depending on how done I want them.

If I’m adding cheese, I place a slice on each patty in the last minute of cooking and cover loosely so it melts.

I toast the buns, then build my burgers with whatever toppings I’m craving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 8 minutes

Total Time: 18 minutes

Calories: 350 kcal per serving

Variations

Cheese lovers: I add sharp cheddar, Swiss, or even blue cheese crumbles for extra richness.

Spicy kick: A dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños in the beef mix brings heat.

Stuffed burgers: I sometimes place cheese or sautéed onions inside the patties before cooking.

Different meats: Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well in this recipe too.

Storage/Reheating

If I have leftovers, I store the cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, I use the microwave for about 30–60 seconds, or reheat them in a skillet over medium heat to keep the outside crispy. I always keep the buns and toppings separate until I’m ready to eat.

FAQs

How do I keep beef burgers from falling apart?

I make sure not to overmix the meat and avoid flipping them too often while cooking. Keeping a slight indentation in the center also helps them cook evenly and stay together.

What’s the best beef blend for juicy burgers?

I stick with 80/20 ground beef. That means 80% lean and 20% fat, which keeps the burgers juicy without being greasy.

Can I make these burgers ahead of time?

Yes. I form the patties and store them in the fridge (covered) for up to 24 hours before cooking. I let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling.

Do I need to add egg or breadcrumbs?

Nope. Since I’m using ground beef with enough fat, the patties hold together just fine without eggs or breadcrumbs.

Can I cook these burgers without a grill?

Absolutely. I often pan-sear them in a skillet on the stove—it gives a great crust and cooks them just as well.

Conclusion

These classic juicy beef burgers are a reliable go-to for any occasion. They’re simple, flavorful, and endlessly customizable, which makes them perfect whether I’m hosting a cookout or just want a fast, tasty dinner. With minimal effort, I get maximum satisfaction—every single time.

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