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Ultimate Juicy Locked Burger Recipe

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A foolproof method to make juicy, flavorful homemade burgers with a perfect caramelized crust using a blend of ground chuck and brisket and a unique pressing technique.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) 80/20 ground chuck and brisket blend
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Cheese slices (sharp cheddar or American), optional
  • 2 tablespoons softened butter, for toasting buns
  • Burger buns (soft brioche or potato rolls)
  • Condiments and toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, red onion rings, burger sauce or mayo

Instructions

  1. Divide 1 pound of ground beef into 4 equal portions (~4 ounces each). Lightly shape each into a loose ball without overworking the meat.
  2. Preheat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for 5 minutes until hot but not smoking.
  3. Place one beef ball onto the skillet. Using a spatula, firmly press it down into a thin patty about 1/4 inch thick to create a crust and lock in juices. Repeat with remaining balls, cooking 2 at a time if needed.
  4. Immediately season the patties with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  5. Cook patties undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until edges crisp and bottom develops a deep brown crust with juices pooling on top.
  6. Flip the patties carefully. Add a slice of cheese if desired and cook for another 1-2 minutes for medium doneness.
  7. While the second side cooks, butter the buns lightly and toast cut-side down in a separate pan or oven until golden and crispy.
  8. Assemble the cooked patties on toasted buns and add your favorite toppings and condiments.

Notes

Do not press down on patties after the initial smash to avoid squeezing out juices. Dab excess juices gently with a paper towel if pooling too heavily to prevent steaming. Let burgers rest 2-3 minutes off heat before assembling to redistribute juices. Use 80/20 fat ratio beef for best juiciness. Toast buns while patties cook to save time.

Nutrition

Keywords: juicy burger, smashed burger, homemade burger, ground chuck brisket blend, easy burger recipe, perfect burger crust