Memorial Day is the unofficial start of summer, so it’s time for a refresher on how to make the perfect burger. There’s something deeply satisfying about biting into a perfectly cooked burger: thick, juicy, and packed with flavor. Plenty of restaurants in and around Westford, MA, make great burgers, but there’s something special about making them at home. Making that perfect burger at home isn’t just about throwing meat on a grill. It’s about choosing the right ingredients, mastering the technique, and paying attention to the details.
Make burgers this summer that compete with your favorite restaurants in Westford, MA. Here’s how to cook the perfect burger.
Start with the Right Meat
Great burgers begin with quality beef. Look for ground beef with a fat content of around 80/20—80% lean meat and 20% fat. This balance gives your burger that juicy tenderness without being greasy. Avoid overhandling the meat when forming patties. Gently shape them into ¾-inch thick discs, slightly wider than your buns, with a small thumbprint in the center to prevent puffing during cooking.
When it comes to seasoning, simple but generous is best. Salt and pepper are all you need. Season the patties liberally just before they hit the heat. Salting too early can draw out moisture, resulting in a dry patty.
Use High Heat and Don’t Overflip
Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about three to four minutes per side, depending on thickness and desired doneness. Flip them only once to maintain a good sear and keep the juices locked in.
If you’re going for a cheeseburger, add a slice of cheese about a minute before the burger is done, then cover the pan or close the grill lid to melt it perfectly. Obviously, once the cheese goes on, you’re done flipping.
Don’t Skip the Finishing Touches
About the same time you put the cheese on, place your buns on the grill to toast them. Never skip this step. Toasting your burger buns on the grill or in a pan adds texture and prevents sogginess, improving the eating experience.
When assembling your final burger, the order matters. Start with your bun base, add your sauce, then the patty, followed by toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles. Top with the bun lid, give it a gentle press, and you’re ready to serve.