It's a warm summer evening. The sun is setting, your friends are gathered around, and the smell of something delicious is wafting through the air.
It's burger night. But wait—forget those grilled patties that everyone has come to expect. Instead, let me introduce you to a game-changer: skillet hamburgers.
These beauties are cooked indoors, making them ideal for any season. No need to wait for summer to enjoy a juicy burger.
I’ve experimented with this recipe countless times, and the results are always fantastic. Trust me; you’ll want to keep this one in your back pocket.
Let’s kick things off with a few ideas for sides that will complement skillet hamburgers beautifully. When you have a satisfying burger, the right accompaniment can make the meal memorable.
1. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are a spectacular pairing. Their natural sweetness contrasts perfectly with the savory flavors of the burger. Plus, they add a splash of color to your plate. Just remember to season them with a pinch of salt as soon as they come out of the oven for that perfect bite.
2. Classic Coleslaw
A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and brightness. Made with cabbage, carrots, and a zesty dressing, it cuts through the richness of the burger while still offering a satisfying crunch. A touch of apple cider vinegar gives it a nice kick.
3. Grilled Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob is the ultimate summer side. It’s sweet, buttery, and so easy to prepare. Simply grill it alongside your burgers, and you’ll have a plate that screams “summer cookout.”
Now, let’s dive into the details!
Skillet hamburgers are juicy beef patties cooked in a skillet on your stove. They’re similar to traditional hamburgers cooked on a grill but give you total control over the cooking process.
This method allows for a beautifully seared exterior while keeping the inside perfectly cooked.
You might wonder why you’d choose this method. Well, let’s break down a few reasons why I’m enthusiastic about skillet hamburgers.
1. Quick Cooking Time
Skillet hamburgers cook faster than those on a grill. With a hot skillet, you’re looking at just a few minutes per side. This is great for busy weeknights.
2. Full Control Over Cooking Temperature
When you cook burgers in a skillet, you can adjust the heat easily. If you want a perfect medium-rare, you can dial back the heat once you’ve achieved that beautiful sear.
3. Juicy and Flavorful
Cooking in a skillet retains the moisture of the beef. The Maillard reaction creates a deeper flavor through direct heat, giving you that satisfying taste without needing to fire up the grill.
4. Convenient for Any Weather
Rain pouring down? No worries! You can still enjoy burgers without stepping outside. This recipe is not dependent on the grill, making it perfect for all seasons.
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your skillet hamburgers:
- 4 soft and fluffy hamburger buns
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 4 slices sharp Cheddar cheese
- 1 small sweet onion, thinly sliced
- ½ teaspoon flaky kosher salt
- 8 grinds of freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon hearty whole-grain Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons savory Worcestershire sauce
- 1 to 1½ pounds premium ground beef (80/20 beef blend)
- Burger toppings — crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, tangy refrigerator pickles, ketchup, creamy mustard, rich mayo, sliced avocado, and a few jalapeño slices for extra zing
Now that you have everything ready, let’s transform these ingredients into mouthwatering skillet hamburgers.
Begin by placing the ground beef in a large bowl. Season it with salt and pepper. A dash of Worcestershire sauce and a spoonful of Dijon mustard rounds out the flavor. Now, gently mix with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat.
Form the mixture into patties, making them slightly larger than your buns, as they will shrink during cooking.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Don’t rush this step! A well-heated skillet gives you that brilliant sear. If you hear the sizzle when the beef hits the pan, you’re doing it right.
Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the patties in the pan. Give them some space. You don’t want to overcrowd the skillet. Let them cook on one side without moving them for about 4-5 minutes.
Once a nice crust has formed, flip the burgers. Immediately top each patty with a slice of cheese. This will melt perfectly as the patty cooks during the last few minutes. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, depending on your desired doneness.
While the burgers finish cooking, take a separate smaller skillet. Add the melted butter and toast the burger buns until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes. This adds a delightful crunch.
Now the fun part! Start with the bottom bun, add the patty with melted cheese, then layer on your favorite toppings. Add lettuce, tomato, pickles, and any other condiments to suit your taste. Finally, cap it off with the top bun.
If you end up with leftovers (though I doubt it), store the patties and buns separately. Use airtight containers and they’ll be good in the fridge for about 3 days. Reheat in the skillet or microwave when you’re ready for round two.
Let’s revisit those sides we discussed earlier, plus a few more ideas.
1. Classic Potato Salad
A creamy potato salad provides a starchy side that balances the burger's flavors. Dice some boiled potatoes, add mayo, mustard, and chopped celery for crunch. It’s a summertime staple!
2. Grilled Zucchini
Zucchini slices grilled or sautéed with olive oil, salt, and pepper offer not only vibrant color but also a fresh taste. They take very little time to prepare.
3. Homemade Baked Beans
Sweet and smoky baked beans can be a comforting addition. You can prepare them the day before to save time on your burger night.
Sometimes we’re not stocked with the exact ingredients. Here are some substitutions if needed.
1. Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you're looking to reduce fat, these options can work but may require careful cooking to avoid dryness.
2. Cheese Variants: If sharp Cheddar isn’t your thing, try Swiss or pepper jack for a spicy twist.
3. Whole Wheat Buns: Swap for whole wheat buns for added fiber; it’s a healthier version that doesn’t compromise on taste.
4. Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, use large lettuce leaves instead of buns for a refreshing twist.
Skillet hamburgers offer a convenient and delicious way to enjoy a classic dish without the need for outdoor grilling. With the right ingredients and a bit of technique, you can create a burger that's not only juicy but bursting with flavor.
Plus, it opens up the door for endless customization. So the next time you're looking to impress at dinner, or just want something comforting, give these skillet hamburgers a shot. Your tastebuds will thank you!
Skillet hamburgers are juicy beef patties cooked in a skillet on your stove. They’re similar to traditional hamburgers cooked on a grill but give you total control over the cooking process.
Begin by placing the ground beef in a large bowl. Season it with salt and pepper. A dash of Worcestershire sauce and a spoonful of Dijon mustard rounds out the flavor. Now, gently mix with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat.
Form the mixture into patties, making them slightly larger than your buns, as they will shrink during cooking.
Servings 4
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Lauren Miller is a Maryland-based registered dietitian and the creator of Comfort Food Meals, where she shares easy, nutritious, and heartwarming recipes inspired by her love for comforting, home-cooked meals. With a focus on using wholesome ingredients, Lauren aims to balance indulgence with nutrition in every dish. Her goal is to help others create meals that nourish both body and soul.