A classic burger doesn’t have to come off the grill to be delicious. Easy stove top burgers are the perfect solution for when you want a juicy, satisfying meal without stepping outside. With just a few simple ingredients and a skillet, you can make flavorful, tender burgers that rival any diner or fast food joint.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Convenient Cooking: No grill needed—perfect for weeknight dinners or when outdoor cooking isn’t an option.
- Juicy and Flavorful: Cooking on the stovetop locks in moisture and flavor.
- Quick and Simple: Minimal prep and cook time—ideal for busy schedules.
- Customizable: Easily tailored with different cheeses, toppings, and condiments.
- Consistent Results: Pan-searing creates a golden crust while keeping the inside tender.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (80% lean)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
- Butter or oil for the skillet
- Optional: cheese slices (American, cheddar, Swiss)
- Your choice of toppings: lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Form Patties: Divide the ground beef into four equal portions. Gently shape each portion into a patty, about ¾ to 1 inch thick. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly.
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Season: Sprinkle both sides of each patty with salt and pepper.
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Toast Buns: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil, then place the buns cut-side down. Toast until golden, then remove and set aside.
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Cook Patties: Increase heat to medium-high. Add a little more butter or oil if needed, then place the patties in the hot skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on the first side without pressing down.
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Flip and Finish: Flip the patties and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Add cheese during the last minute of cooking if desired. Cook until burgers reach your preferred doneness (160°F internal temperature for well done).
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Assemble: Place patties on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Add toppings and condiments as desired, then close with the top bun. Serve hot.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 burgers
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 20 minutes
Variations
- Stuffed Burgers: Place a spoonful of cheese or sautéed mushrooms between two thin patties and seal the edges before cooking.
- Seasoned Patties: Add Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, or onion powder to the beef for extra flavor.
- Bun Options: Use brioche, whole wheat, pretzel, or gluten-free buns to suit your preferences.
- Topping Ideas: Try avocado, jalapeños, sautéed onions, bacon, or fried eggs for unique combinations.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave to prevent drying out the burgers.
FAQs
How can I keep the burgers from puffing up in the middle?
Making a small indentation in the center of each patty helps them cook evenly and prevents puffing.
What type of ground beef is best for stove top burgers?
An 80/20 mix (80% lean, 20% fat) offers the best balance of flavor and juiciness.
Can I cook frozen patties on the stove?
Yes, but thawing is recommended for even cooking. If cooking from frozen, cook on lower heat and extend the cook time.
How do I know when the burgers are done?
Use a meat thermometer. The USDA recommends 160°F for ground beef. Alternatively, cut into the center to check for desired doneness.
Should I use butter or oil in the skillet?
Either works. Butter adds rich flavor, while oil has a higher smoke point. A combination is also a good option.
Can I make these burgers in a non-stick pan?
Yes, but a cast iron skillet or stainless steel pan will provide a better sear.
How do I avoid overcooking the burgers?
Monitor the heat and don’t press the patties down during cooking, which can squeeze out juices and dry them out.
What cheeses work best for burgers?
Cheddar, American, Swiss, pepper jack, and blue cheese are all excellent options.
Can I prepare the patties ahead of time?
Yes, shape and season the patties up to a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
What sides go well with stove top burgers?
Serve with fries, potato wedges, coleslaw, salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Stove top burgers are a quick, satisfying way to enjoy a hearty meal at home, regardless of the season. With a few basic ingredients and minimal equipment, you can create juicy, flavorful burgers with ease. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this recipe delivers dependable results every time.
Print
Easy Stove Top Burgers
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Make juicy and flavorful Easy Stove Top Burgers in under 30 minutes! Perfect for a quick dinner, these homemade beef patties are seared to perfection right on your stovetop. Ideal for busy weeknights or anytime you’re craving a classic burger.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best juiciness)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp oil or butter (for the pan)
- 4 burger buns
- Optional toppings: sliced cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles, ketchup, mustard, mayo
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently until just combined.
- Divide into 4 equal portions and shape into patties, pressing a small indentation in the center of each to prevent puffing.
- Heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add patties and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until desired doneness. Add cheese slices during the last minute if using.
- Toast buns in the skillet if desired.
- Assemble burgers with your favorite toppings and serve hot.
Notes
- Avoid overmixing the beef to keep burgers tender.
- A cast iron or heavy-bottomed skillet works best for even cooking.
- You can cover the pan briefly to help melt the cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger patty (approximately 4 ounces of cooked beef)
- Calories: 230 kcal
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 81.6mg
- Saturated Fat: 5.9g
- Trans Fat: 0.97g
- Carbohydrates: 75.6m
- Protein: 21.7g
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