Dinner

Beef Burgers – Learn to Make Recipe

BySophie Carsel November 11, 2025November 11, 2025

Introduction

Learn how to make classic beef burgers that are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for any barbecue or casual meal. This simple recipe guides you through preparing tasty patties and assembling delicious burgers with your favorite toppings.

The image shows four small burgers placed closely together on a white rectangular plate, set on a white marbled surface. Each burger has three visible layers: at the bottom, there is a light-brown sesame seed bun base topped with leafy green lettuce and slices of red tomato. Above the vegetables is a thick, dark brown grilled beef patty with a slightly rough texture, and on top of the patty are thin rings of raw red onion. Two of the burgers have the top buns slightly tilted or lifted, showing the layers clearly, while the other two have the sesame seed buns fully covering the contents. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 small onion
500g good-quality beef mince
1 egg
1 tbsp vegetable oil
4 burger buns
Optional to serve: sliced tomato, beetroot, horseradish sauce, mayonnaise, ketchup, handful iceberg lettuce, rocket, watercress

Instructions

Step 1: Peel the onion and slice it in half through the root. Place cut-side down on a chopping board. Make three horizontal cuts through the onion keeping the root intact, then make four vertical cuts from top to bottom. Holding the root end, finely dice the onion.
Step 2: In a bowl, combine the diced onion, beef mince, and egg. Mix well to combine evenly.
Step 3: Divide the mixture into four equal portions. Wet your hands lightly and roll each portion into a ball roughly the size of a tennis ball. Flatten each ball gently into patties about 3cm thick, ensuring they are of even thickness for uniform cooking. Cover with cling film and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 4: Preheat your barbecue to medium hot (about 40 minutes after lighting when coals are red with white ash). Brush one side of each burger patty lightly with vegetable oil.
Step 5: Place the oiled side of the patties down onto the barbecue. Cook undisturbed for 5 minutes until lightly charred. Brush the other side with oil, then turn the burgers over using tongs. Avoid pressing down on the patties to keep juices inside.
Step 6: Cook the second side for 5 more minutes for medium doneness. For pink in the middle, reduce cooking time by 1 minute per side; for well done, add 1 minute per side.
Step 7: Remove the burgers from the barbecue and let them rest on a plate for a few minutes to allow the juices to settle.
Step 8: Slice the burger buns in half and toast them cut-side down on the barbecue rack for about 1 minute until lightly charred.
Step 9: Assemble each burger by placing a patty inside a bun and adding your choice of sliced tomato, beetroot, horseradish sauce, mayonnaise, ketchup, lettuce, rocket, or watercress.

Tips & Variations

For a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or Worcestershire sauce into the beef mixture before shaping the patties.
If you prefer a leaner option, substitute half of the beef mince with turkey or chicken mince.
Use brioche buns for a richer, sweeter bun option.
Try different toppings such as sliced cheese, pickles, or caramelised onions to customize your burger.

Storage

Store cooked burger patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave until warmed through. It’s best to assemble the burgers fresh to keep the buns from becoming soggy.

How to Serve

A white plate with four small burgers arranged in a close group on a white marbled surface. Each burger has a sesame seed bun, with two buns closed and two open-faced. The open-faced burgers show three core layers: a fresh green lettuce leaf at the bottom, a thick, juicy dark brown grilled beef patty above it, and several rings of thinly sliced purple-red onion on top. The closed buns display a lightly browned top with sesame seeds. The colors are warm and natural, showing a fresh, homemade look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the burger patties ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and shape the patties up to a day in advance. Just cover them with cling film and keep them refrigerated until ready to cook.

How can I tell when the burgers are cooked properly?

For medium doneness, cook the patties for about 5 minutes on each side over medium heat. The internal temperature should reach 70°C (160°F) to ensure they are safe to eat. Adjust cooking time if you prefer less or more doneness.