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Quick Burger Recipe for Labor Day Grilling Fun
As Labor Day approaches, many of us are gearing up for one last summer celebration filled with outdoor fun, family, and of course, delicious food! One of the quintessential dishes that instantly brings everyone together is the classic burger. This year, we’ve got a quick and easy burger recipe that will have your guests raving, leaving you more time to relax and enjoy the festivities.
Ingredients for Quick Burgers
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 recommended for juiciness)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 4 burger buns (toasted if desired)
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese (optional)
- Toppings of your choice (lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise)
Instructions
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Mix the Meat: In a bowl, combine the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently, being careful not to overwork the meat which can lead to tough burgers.
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Form Patties: Divide the meat mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb; this helps the burgers cook evenly and prevents them from puffing up while grilling.
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Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. If you’re using a stovetop grill pan, preheat it over medium heat and add a little oil to prevent the burgers from sticking.
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Grill the Burgers: Place the patties on the grill. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side. Avoid pressing down on the patties with a spatula to keep the juices inside. Flip the burgers and add a slice of cheese on top if you like. Grill for another 3-4 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F for medium doneness.
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Toast the Buns: During the last minute of cooking, place the burger buns on the grill until they are lightly toasted.
- Assemble the Burgers: Remove the burgers from the grill. Place them on the toasted buns and add your favorite toppings. Lettuce, tomato, and pickles are classic choices, along with condiments like ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise.
Tips for the Perfect Burger
- Don’t Overmix: Keep your burger mixture gentle to ensure tenderness.
- Rest the Burgers: After grilling, let the burgers rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for a juicier bite.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize your seasoning. Try adding Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, or even a splash of barbecue sauce to the meat for an extra flavor kick.
Enjoying the Day
Gather your friends and family, and fire up the grill. These quick burgers are sure to be the highlight of your Labor Day celebrations. Whether you’re enjoying them with a side of classic potato salad, a refreshing coleslaw, or some crispy fries, this recipe will add a delicious touch to your holiday feast.
Happy grilling, and enjoy a well-deserved break this Labor Day!
Remember to check out more delicious recipes and inspiration at Open Cottage.net.