How to Grill That Perfect Burger

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Start with fresh ground chuck.

   Chuck is the most flavorful type of ground beef, and comes from a single cut of beef.
   
   Plain "ground beef" can include meat from all over the animal.
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   Step 2: Make sure the chuck has a fat content of at least 15 to 22 percent to ensure juiciness.

   If you prefer your burgers well done, ask your butcher for a higher fat content.
   
   This will allow you to cook them more without drying them out. , Wash your hands well, then form the patties. , Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper give the best flavor. , Firmly press ball into a flat cake, first between your hands, then onto a clean cutting board. ,, Make the diameter about 1⁄2 inch (1.3 cm) larger than the bun to allow for shrinkage. , Lightly oil the bars with vegetable oil
   - pour oil onto a paper towel, then hold the towel with tongs to wipe the oil onto the grill bars. , Cook about 3 to 4 minutes per side, turning once.
   
   Do not press down on the burgers with the spatula during cooking
   - this only squeezes out the juices, encourages flame-ups and dries out the burger. , (See Warnings for recommended temperature.) ,,
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   Step 3: Chill the beef well before forming patties.

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   Step 4: Season the meat with salt and pepper.

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   Step 5: Make each patty by forming about half a pound of ground chuck into a tight ball about the size of a baseball.

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   Step 6: Use a spatula or other straight-edged tool to "pull in" the sides of the patty so that they remain together and tight.

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   Step 7: Form patties about 1/2- to 3/4-inch thick.

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   Step 8: Build a hot fire in the grill.

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   Step 9: Place the burgers on the grill over direct heat.

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    Step 10: Check doneness by peeking inside a patty with a spatula

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    Step 11: or use an instant-read food thermometer inserted into the center of the patty.

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    Step 12: Serve on fresh buns with any toppings you prefer: cheese

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    Step 13: tomatoes

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    Step 14: lettuce

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    Step 15: pickles and condiments such as ketchup

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    Step 16: mayonnaise or mustard.

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    Step 17: Finished.

Detailed Guide

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