Cooking burgers in the oven is a convenient, hands-off alternative to grilling or pan-frying. This method is useful when weather conditions are poor or when preparing a large batch of patties. Baking provides consistent, even heat that helps retain moisture, resulting in a tender and juicy patty. The oven method also reduces the grease splatter and smoke associated with cooking burgers indoors.
The Essential Oven Burger Method
Start by preparing the ground beef, gently mixing it with seasonings like salt and pepper. Avoid overworking the meat, as this compresses the proteins and leads to a dense, dry texture. Form the mixture into uniform patties, typically three-quarters of an inch thick. Use your thumb to create a small indentation in the center of each patty; this dimple prevents the patty from bulging into a dome shape during cooking.
Preheat your oven to a temperature between 375°F and 425°F; 400°F is a common choice for balanced cooking. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper to simplify cleanup and catch rendered fat. Place the seasoned patties onto the prepared sheet. Ensure the patties are not touching, which allows heat to circulate properly around each one.
Cooking time varies based on oven temperature and patty thickness, generally ranging between 15 and 25 minutes. A standard three-quarter-inch patty cooked at 400°F takes approximately 20 minutes to reach a safe internal temperature. Turning the burgers halfway through the cooking time promotes more uniform browning and cooking on both sides.
Tips for Perfect Oven Burgers
To manage rendered fat and achieve a better result, place an oven-safe wire rack directly onto the foil-lined baking sheet before adding the patties. This setup elevates the burgers, allowing grease to drip away into the pan below. This prevents the patties from sitting in their own fat and steaming, which can lead to a gray exterior. The rack encourages better air circulation and a crispier edge.
The most reliable way to ensure safety and desired doneness is by using a meat thermometer, inserted horizontally into the side of the thickest patty. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends that all ground beef be cooked to a minimum internal temperature of 160°F. For the juiciest result, remove the burgers from the oven when the thermometer reads 155°F, as the internal temperature will continue to rise during a short resting period.
If making cheeseburgers, add the cheese during the final moments of cooking to achieve a perfect melt without burning. Place a slice of cheese on each patty during the last two to three minutes of baking, or immediately after removing the pan. Allowing the burgers to rest for a few minutes helps the internal juices redistribute throughout the meat, contributing to a more tender and flavorful result.