How to cook a burger in a cast iron skillet? - Chef's Resource (2024)

Burgers are an all-time favorite food for many people, and the best part is that you don’t always need a grill to enjoy a juicy and delicious burger. With a trusty cast iron skillet, you can easily achieve restaurant-quality burgers in the comfort of your own home. In this article, we will walk you through the process of cooking a burger in a cast iron skillet, providing you with useful tips and techniques along the way.

The Method

How to cook a burger in a cast iron skillet?

The key to cooking the perfect burger in a cast iron skillet lies in a few simple steps:

1. Preheat your skillet: Place your cast iron skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat and allow it to heat up for a few minutes until it becomes hot.

2. Prepare the patties: While the skillet is preheating, season your ground beef with your favorite spices, such as salt, pepper, or garlic powder. Gently form the ground beef into patties, making sure not to overwork the meat. Press your thumb in the center of each patty to create a slight indentation. This helps the burger cook evenly and prevents it from puffing up.

3. Grease the skillet: Add a small amount of oil or butter to the preheated skillet. Swirl it around to ensure even coverage of the cooking surface.

4. Cook the patties: Carefully place the patties in the hot skillet, giving them space between each other. Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can cause uneven cooking. Cook the patties for approximately 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time according to your desired level of doneness. Flip the patties using a spatula and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.

5. Check the internal temperature: To ensure that the burgers are cooked to your desired level of doneness, use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, the temperature should read 130-135°F (54-57°C), while medium should be around 140-145°F (60-63°C). Adjust the cooking time accordingly if needed.

6. Let them rest: Once cooked, remove the burgers from the skillet and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a juicier burger.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen patties?

Yes, you can use frozen patties, but make sure they are thawed completely before cooking for even cooking results.

2. What type of ground beef should I use?

It is recommended to use ground beef with a higher fat content, around 80-85%, for a juicier and more flavorful burger.

3. Should I press the patties with a spatula while cooking?

Avoid pressing the patties with a spatula, as this will cause the flavorful juices to escape, resulting in a drier burger.

4. Can I cook burgers to a well-done level?

Yes, you can cook the burgers to a well-done level by increasing the cooking time on each side. However, be cautious not to overcook them, as it may result in a tougher texture.

5. What toppings can I add to my burger?

You can add various toppings to enhance the flavor of your burger, such as cheese, lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles, or condiments like ketchup, mustard, or mayonnaise.

6. How can I make a cheeseburger?

To make a cheeseburger, simply place a slice of cheese on top of the patty during the last minute of cooking. Cover the skillet with a lid or plate to let the cheese melt.

7. Can I cook multiple burgers at once?

While it is possible to cook multiple burgers at once in a cast iron skillet, overcrowding the skillet might result in uneven cooking. It’s best to cook them in batches.

8. Should I cover the skillet while cooking?

Covering the skillet while cooking is not necessary, as it may trap moisture and result in a less crispy exterior. However, you can cover the skillet briefly to melt cheese or to cook thicker burgers more evenly.

9. Can I use a different type of skillet?

While a cast iron skillet is recommended for its excellent heat retention, you can still use other types of skillets, such as stainless steel or non-stick. Adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly.

10. Can I use lean ground beef?

Using lean ground beef is possible, but keep in mind that it may result in a drier burger compared to using ground beef with a slightly higher fat content.

11. Can I cook a veggie burger in a cast iron skillet?

Certainly! The same method can be used to cook a veggie burger in a cast iron skillet. Adjust the cooking time based on the instructions provided by the manufacturer.

12. Can I marinate the patties before cooking?

Yes, marinating the patties before cooking can add extra flavor. However, make sure to pat them dry before placing them in the hot skillet to prevent excessive splattering oil.