Broiling hamburgers in the oven is an easy and delicious way to enjoy juicy burgers without firing up the grill. Whether you’re stuck inside on a chilly day or just prefer the convenience of your oven, broiling delivers that perfect sear and mouthwatering flavor. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to broil hamburgers like a pro – from prepping the patties to serving up your masterpiece.
Why Broil Burgers in the Oven?
Broiling uses intense, direct heat from the oven’s top element, mimicking the effect of a grill. It cooks the burger quickly and creates a beautifully browned crust while keeping the inside juicy. Plus, it’s a great option when outdoor grilling isn’t possible or practical.
What You’ll Need
– Ground beef (about 1 pound for 4 patties)
– Salt and pepper (and optional spices)
– Hamburger buns
– Cheese slices (optional)
– Your favorite burger toppings (lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles, sauces)
Step 1: Shape Your Burger Patties
Start by dividing your ground beef into equal portions, typically four patties of about 7 ounces each. Shape them into round patties about 4 to 5 inches wide and roughly three-quarters of an inch thick. To prevent puffing up during cooking, gently press a small dimple in the center of each patty with your finger – this helps them cook evenly and keeps their shape.
Step 2: Season the Patties
Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. You can keep it simple or add spices like garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, or dried herbs for extra flavor. For a juicy boost, consider mixing in a splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce before shaping the patties. If you like, sauté some minced onions, garlic, or bell peppers and mix them into the meat for a tasty veggie twist.
Step 3: Preheat Your Broiler and Prepare the Pan
Place your oven rack about 3 to 5 inches below the broiler element and preheat the broiler on high. Use a broiling pan, a cast-iron skillet, or a rimmed baking sheet. If using a pan, lightly oil it or brush the patties with a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Broil the Burgers
Place the patties on the pan and slide it under the broiler. Broil for about 3 to 5 minutes per side depending on your preferred doneness:
– For medium-rare, aim for about 3 minutes each side.
– For medium, cook about 4 to 5 minutes per side.
– For well-done, add a minute or two more per side.
Look for a nicely browned, slightly charred surface before flipping. Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature if you want precision: 130°F for medium-rare, 140-145°F for medium, and 160°F or above for well-done.
If you want cheeseburgers, add a slice of cheese on top of each patty about 30 seconds before finishing so it melts perfectly.
Step 5: Let the Burgers Rest
Once cooked, remove the patties from the oven and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This helps the juices redistribute inside the meat, making your burger even juicier.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
Toast your hamburger buns lightly while the patties rest. Then build your burger with your favorite toppings – crisp lettuce, fresh tomato slices, onions, pickles, and your preferred sauces like ketchup, mustard, or mayo. Stack it all up and enjoy your perfectly broiled burger!
Broiling hamburgers in the oven is a quick, easy, and delicious alternative to grilling. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy juicy, flavorful burgers any time of year. So next time you crave a burger, skip the grill and try broiling – your taste buds will thank you!