It’s officially grilling season! And as far as summer cookouts go, burgers are a must-have for just about any menu! Whether it’s a 4th of July feast or simply a weeknight dinner, the sizzle of the grill and the juicy, meaty patties will have everyone lining up for seconds. But if you’re new to grilling recipes—or you just want to ensure perfect burgers every time—you’ll want to know just how long it takes to grill a burger and what the right burger temperature is for that matter. After all, some of your guests might prefer their burgers more rare while others will want them cooked to medium-doneness. What's more? This guide to burger temperatures can be used all year-round so even if you make your burgers on the stovetop, you'll know just the right way to cook 'em!
So, what's the best way to tell if your burgers are done? You'll want to grab a meat thermometer for that! Just like with other ground beef recipes, it can be tricky to know the temperature of a burger without this simple tool. That's because many times burgers are pink in the middle, but still safe to eat. Once you have your thermometer handy, you can use the burger temperatures below as your guide. Then, fire up your grill and start flipping with our best burger recipes—classic cheeseburgers or BLT sliders, you can't go wrong!
What temperature should burgers be cooked to?
The temperature of your burger depends on how you like your burgers cooked. According to the USDA, ground meat should be cooked to a minimum temperature of 160˚ which will give you a well-done beef burger. But if you like your burgers a little less done, aim for one of the burger temperatures below:
• Medium-rare: 130° to 135°
• Medium: 140° to 145°
• Medium-well: 150° to 155°
Keep in mind that your burger patties will continue to cook (because of residual heat) even after being removed from the grill, so if you want to reach the desired temperatures above, you'll need to take the patties off 5 to 10 degrees before they reach their ideal temp. Insert your thermometer horizontally from the side to reach the thickest part of the burger and get an accurate read.
How long do you cook burgers?
If you like your patty medium-rare with a red-pink center and browning around the edges, grill for about 2 1/2 minutes per side or five minutes total, or until the internal temperature reads 130 to 135 degrees. Thinner patties will be done on the earlier side and extra-thick patties may need a bit longer, so always use your trusty thermometer to be safe!
Is it OK if your burgers are a little pink?
If you like your burgers cooked less than well done, then yes! The more pink the burger is in the center, the more rare it is; the more brown in the center, the more well done. A medium-rare burger will still be pink and juicy in the middle, whereas a medium-well burger will be mostly brown.
Can you check for doneness without a thermometer?
Yes, but it takes practice—and it's not as accurate. Gently press the burger in the middle and see how squishy it feels. A rare burger will feel soft, like the fleshy area between your thumb and palm when your hand is flat. The more cooked your burger is, the firmer it will feel. Press your thumb to your ring finger on one hand and feel that same part of your hand between the thumb and palm; that's what a medium burger should feel like.
Serve Your Best Burger
ThermoPro Ultra Fast Meat Thermometer
The Pioneer Woman Kitchen Tool Set
