6 secrets to perfectly juicy burgers

6 secrets to perfectly juicy burgers

When I was just a teenager, I spent my summers flipping burgers at a local restaurant. What I learned sweating in front of the flat top has served me well in life. At cookouts, I always feel a certain confidence: I don't just hope my burgers will turn out well; I know they will. Cooking at home with my wife, I can use low-cost ingredients to whip up savory creations that you'd pay top dollar for at a restaurant. 

The main thing I've learned is this: not all burgers are created equal. A peerless patty begins before you even light the grill. Here are my six secrets for great homemade hamburgers...

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What are your simple tricks for perfect burgers?

Matthew Thompson is the associate food editor for EatingWell Magazine.

Tip 1: Incorporate Flavorful Ingredients

Add flavor and moisture to lean burgers by incorporating other ingredients. For a fabulous bison burger, add smoked cheese, wild rice and barbecue sauce.
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What are your simple tricks for perfect burgers?

Matthew Thompson is the associate food editor for EatingWell Magazine.

Tip 2: Don't Overwork the Meat

Use a light touch. If you're adding seasoning or other ingredients to the meat itself, mix it just until everything is incorporated.

What are your simple tricks for perfect burgers?

Matthew Thompson is the associate food editor for EatingWell Magazine.

Tip 3: Mix Seasonings Into the Meat

Don't just sprinkle your formed burgers with salt and pepper—mix seasonings into the meat as well. 

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What are your simple tricks for perfect burgers?

Matthew Thompson is the associate food editor for EatingWell Magazine.

Tip 4: Add a Leaner Meat

Add a leaner, neutral-tasting meat like turkey to a fattier cut like lamb to reduce saturated fat and cholesterol.

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What are your simple tricks for perfect burgers?

Matthew Thompson is the associate food editor for EatingWell Magazine.

Tip 5: Add Colorful Herbs & Spices

Chicken and turkey burgers are often leaner, but not very visually appealing. Adding colorful herbs and spices like paprika, cilantro and parsley increases their visual appeal and flavor.

What are your simple tricks for perfect burgers?

Matthew Thompson is the associate food editor for EatingWell Magazine.

Tip 6: Get Creative with Flavor Combinations

Get creative and use the flavor combinations in your favorite ethnic foods to season burgers. For example, if you're a huge fan of Mexican food, try adding chile powder and cumin to your burger and top it with pepper Jack cheese and salsa.

What are your simple tricks for perfect burgers?

Matthew Thompson is the associate food editor for EatingWell Magazine.