The Perfect Grilled Burger

Grill Next Door

Culinary Tips:

--Be sure to let the meat come up to room temperature before putting the burgers on the grill!

--When forming the patties, press a small depression into the middle of them; this helps them cook evenly when on the grill.

--Whenever you're finished handling raw meat, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly afterwards.

--Always oil your grates with a high-temperature oil such as vegetable oil.

The Perfect Grilled Burger

Serves 4

Ingredients:

1 ½ pounds ground chuck (80% lean)

Salt and Pepper, for seasoning

2 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce

Vegetable oil, for oiling grates

 

4 pretzel buns

4 slices white cheddar cheese

4 leaves butter lettuce

1 avocado, ¼ inch slices

½ cup Grilled Sauce

 

Optional:

Sliced pickles

Sliced olives

Sliced heirloom tomatoes

Grilled onions


Procedure:

In a bowl combine the ground meat, 2 tsp. salt, 1 tsp.pepper and Worcestershire sauce. Mix thoroughly and divide into 4 equal patties, making them slightly thinner in the middle than on the sides. Handle only until the patties come together: do not overwork the meat. Let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.

Preheat grill to medium high heat (about 375F) and oil grates.

Lightly press down on the burgers to flatten and place on the heated grill. Grill 4 minutes on the first side rotating ¼ turn half way through to achieve crosshatched grill marks. Flip burger and top with cheese if using. Grill for 3-4 minutes (for medium rare to medium) or longer depending on desired doneness. Remove from grill and let sit while you toast the buns.

Lightly toast the pretzel buns 2-4 minutes. Remove from heat.

To assemble burger, coat both sides of the bun with some of the grilled sauce. On the bottom bun place burger, then 3 slices avocado followed by 1 leaf of butter lettuce and any other additional toppings you prefer. Top with top bun. Serve immediately.


Try Megan's grilled burger with Spicy Grilled Broccolini!