Cast Iron Skillet Burgers

When it comes to making America’s favorite food, we want to make it right. Learn how to make the best cast iron burgers with a simple burger mix that is to die for.

Cast Iron Burger

Making a frozen, pre-pattied burger in a cast iron skillet is one thing, but making a thick and juicy, perfectly seasoned, hand-pattied burger in a cast iron skillet is an art.

There is nothing quite like sitting down to a big ol’ juicy skillet burger and some homemade fries.

I have been making burgers in a cast iron skillet for as long as I can remember.

And in that time, I have tried (intentionally and in some cases, accidentally) to make them in almost every way imaginable. Some were better than others; some were a bit of a fail.

I think I finally settled on my favorite way to make hamburgers in the skillet.

How to Cook the Perfect Burger

The perfect burger, in my opinion, needs to have a golden sear on both sides, a nice even top so the toppings don’t go sliding off and it needs to be the same size as the bun or bigger.

Secret Burger Mix

It is really no secret at all; I love pretty much all burger seasonings, cajun, chipotle, fire garlic, backstrap dry rub, etc.

But with that being said, my favorite delicious, mouthwatering burger is a combination of salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.

For 2 lbs of beef, mix about 2 tsp of salt, 1 tsp pepper and 2 tbsp of Worcestershire sauce in with the beef.

How to Patty a Burger

Two ways to patty a burger, one with seasonings and one without.

If using a seasoning, mix the seasoning in with the meat just until everything is combined, don’t overdo it. Then break off about 1/4 pound of meat and shape it into a patty.

If not using a burger mix, separate the meat into 1/4 lb to 1/2 pound patties. Press into patties as gently as possible.

Create an impression in the center of the patty so that the edges of the patty are thicker than the middle.

This will help the burger to keep its original shape and not puff up in the center.

How to Cook a Burger on a Cast Iron Skillet

Making hamburgers in a cast iron skillet is nothing new. Most people recommend using 80/20% ground burger.

I actually get my meat from a local farmer, and I have no idea what percentages it is. But I will say, whatever it is, it is perfect.

Finding the perfect stovetop temp is crucial when making the perfect burger. We want a nice sear on both sides but also don’t want it to burn before the insides get a chance to cook.

What I do is set my heat somewhere between medium and medium-high heat. Once the skillet is preheated, set the patties on the skillet and allow it to sear for about 1 minute.

Reduce the heat to medium, flip the burger and cook for about 2-3 minutes on the other side.

Flip the burger a third time, and let it cook for about 1-3 more minutes, depending on how you like your burgers.

I also like to add my cheese at this time. Remove from heat and let sit for about 1 minute.

The USDA recommends hamburger meat to be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F

The Best Burger Toppings

What to Serve with Hamburgers

Hands down, french fries, preferably homemade, as they go perfectly with hamburgers, but here are a few other sides that go well with hamburgers.

• Baked Beans
• Cheesy Bacon & Squash
• Salad
• Green Beans
• Coleslaw
• Sweet Potato Fries
• Roasted brussel sprouts

Try this bacon-wrapped juicy lucy burger next!

More Delicious Meal Ideas

• BBQ Drumsticks
• Cast Iron Fried Chicken
• Pan-Seared Venison Medallions
• Tuscan Roasted Chicken