The perfect Beef Burgers with Mayo, and Fried Onions recipe

The perfect Beef Burgers with Mayo, and Fried Onions recipe

The perfectly cooked beef burgers. Whether it’s at a backyard barbecue, a quick weeknight dinner, or a weekend indulgence, these classic burgers have a special way of bringing people together. I’ll never forget the first time I made beef burgers from scratch—the delicious aroma of sizzling patties, the sound of the grill, and the pure joy on my family’s faces as they took their first bite. It’s a memory I hold dear, which is why I’m thrilled to share this foolproof recipe with you today.

Why You’ll Love Beef Burgers

This recipe is a total game-changer. It’s super simple to make, uses just a few basic ingredients, and delivers a flavor that will have everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this recipe is versatile enough to suit your taste. It’s perfect for meal prepping or serving at your next gathering. And the best part? You can customize it with your favorite toppings and sauces to make it your own unique creation.

Beef Burgers with Mayo, and Fried Onions

Course: BeefCuisine: American
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

25

minutes
Cooking time

25

minutes
Calories

580

kcal

This recipe is a total game-changer

Ingredients
For the Patties:

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for extra juiciness)

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp onion powder

  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a hint of smoky flavor)

  • For Assembling:
  • 4 burger buns

  • 4 slices of cheese (optional)

  • Lettuce, tomatoes, onions, pickles (or any of your favorite toppings)

  • Condiments like ketchup, mustard, or mayo

Directions

  • Prepare the Patties:
    In a bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Gently mix with your hands, being careful not to overwork the meat. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into patties.
  • Preheat the Grill or Pan:
    Heat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking.
  • Cook the Patties:
    Place the patties on the grill or in the pan, cooking for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). If adding cheese, place a slice on each patty during the last minute of cooking and cover to melt.
  • Toast the Buns:
    While the patties are cooking, lightly toast the buns on the grill or in the pan to add extra flavor.
  • Assemble the Burgers:
    Spread your favorite condiments on the buns, add the cooked patties, and top with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and pickles. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Recipe Video

Notes

  • Don’t skip the seasoning!

Pro Tip:
For a juicier patty, create a small indentation in the center of each patty before cooking. This helps them cook evenly without shrinking or puffing up.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making this recipe may seem , but a few missteps can turn your juicy, flavorful patties into dry, lackluster ones. Here’s what to watch out for:

  • Overworking the Meat: Mixing the ground beef too much can result in tough patties. Handle the meat gently, and mix just until the ingredients are combined.
  • Using Lean Ground Beef: While lean beef is healthier, it’s not the best choice . Go for an 80/20 blend (80% meat, 20% fat) to keep it juicy.
  • Overcooking the Patties: Overcooking dries out the burgers. Use a meat thermometer to check that they reach 160°F (71°C) without going beyond.
  • Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t skip the seasoning! A good blend of salt, pepper, and spices is crucial for bringing out the flavor.
  • Pressing the Patties While Cooking: Pressing down on the patties with a spatula squeezes out their juices, making them dry. Resist the temptation!

Some sides dishes :

  1. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries – A healthier alternative to regular fries with a touch of natural sweetness and crispy edges.
  2. Classic French Fries – Golden, crispy, and perfectly seasoned. A timeless side that pairs well with any burger.
  3. Coleslaw – A creamy, tangy slaw adds a refreshing crunch and balances out the richness of the burger.
  4. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet, charred corn with a hint of smokiness makes for a tasty and easy-to-make side dish.
  5. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes – Crispy roasted potatoes with garlic and parmesan are a savory side that complements the juicy burger.
  6. Onion Rings – Crispy, golden onion rings add extra crunch and a savory touch to your meal.
  7. Pickle Chips – Tangy, crispy pickle chips are a fun, zesty side that pairs perfectly with a rich burger.
  8. Side Salad – A simple, fresh salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
  9. Baked Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy, cheesy mac and cheese makes for a comforting side that will elevate any burger meal.
  10. Grilled Vegetables – A colorful mix of grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms adds a healthy and flavorful touch to your plate.
Beef Burgers

1. Pre-Freezing on a Baking Sheet

  • Why: This step ensures that the patties don’t stick together in the freezer.
  • How: After shaping the patties, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, making sure they’re not touching. Put the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, until the patties are solid. Then, transfer them into a freezer bag or airtight container.
  • Tip: Lay a piece of parchment paper between layers of patties if stacking them.

2. Label and Date the Freezer Bags

  • Why: To keep track of how long the patties have been in the freezer.
  • How: Write the date and any relevant details (like what type of meat or seasoning) on the freezer bag. This will help you use them within the 3-month window and avoid confusion later.
  • Tip: If you’re making multiple types of patties, color-code your bags or label them clearly to differentiate.

3. Add Moisture Locking Ingredients

  • Why: Some patties, especially lean meats, can dry out when frozen and reheated.
  • How: Add ingredients like grated onions, breadcrumbs, or a small amount of milk/egg to the mix before shaping. These ingredients help retain moisture during freezing and cooking.
  • Tip: If you’re making veggie patties, adding grated vegetables or a bit of mashed potato can also help retain moisture.

4. Cooking from Frozen

  • Why: Cooking patties from frozen helps them retain their structure and juices.
  • How: Whether you’re pan-frying, baking, or grilling, cook them from frozen. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time. For pan-frying, cook on medium-low heat for a bit longer to ensure they’re cooked through without burning on the outside.
  • Tip: If you’re baking, you can cover the patties with foil for the first half of cooking to help them cook evenly and retain moisture.

FAQs

Yes, you can swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to match the meat you choose.

Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or microwave when you’re ready to serve.