How to Make the Perfect Burger

Six Steps to a Delicious Beef Burger

To make four succulent beef patties, start with 1.25 pounds of ground chuck, 85% lean or less. Then heat your grill to medium-high and follow these easy but expert instructions.

Step 1:

Divide the meat and gently form it into four balls. Don't overwork the meat or it will become dry and tough.

Step 2:
Flatten the balls into three quarter inch thick patties. Also, flatten the top and sides of each patty to ensure that the thickness is the same throughout.

Step 3:
Use your fingers to make a shallow well in the top of each patty. This will prevent overplumping. Season the patties with salt and pepper.

Step 4:
Oil the grill grate using a pair of tongs and a paper towel dipped in canola oil. Don't spray on the oil or you'll risk a flare up.

Step 5:
Cook, with the wells facing up, until the burgers release easily, four to five minutes for medium. Don't press or flatten. Flip; cook four to five minutes more.


Step 6:
Check the doneness with a thermometer. Insert it through the side so the tip is in the center. It should register 155 degrees for medium.

(Instructions and illustrations from Real Simple magazine. Visit http://www.realsimple.com/ or go here to subscribe to the magazine.)