How Long to Grill Burgers (Time and Temp Chart)
Grill burgers over medium-high heat. For a half-inch patty, cook about 3 to 4 minutes per side for medium. Ground beef is safe at 160°F. Flip once and do not press.
A good burger is simple, but the timing trips a lot of people up. Cook it too long and it dries out. Pull it too early and the middle is raw. This guide shows how long to grill burgers so they come out juicy every time.
How long to grill burgers
These times are for a patty about half an inch thick, cooked over medium-high heat with the lid down. Flip once, halfway through.
- Medium-rare: about 2 to 3 minutes per side (130 to 135°F)
- Medium: about 3 to 4 minutes per side (140 to 145°F)
- Medium-well: about 4 to 5 minutes per side (150 to 155°F)
- Well done: about 5 minutes per side (160°F and up)
Thicker patties take longer. If your burgers are closer to an inch thick, add a minute or two per side and lean on a thermometer.
What temperature are burgers done at
Ground beef is safe to eat at 160°F. That is a bit different from a steak, because grinding beef mixes the outside into the inside. For food safety, the USDA says cook ground beef to 160°F. If you want a pink middle, use good quality beef and know the small risk that comes with it.
Need a hand with other cuts? The Meat-o-Meter gives you the heat and pull temp for all kinds of grilling.
How to grill the perfect burger
- Use 80/20 ground beef. The fat is what makes it juicy.
- Form patties gently. Do not pack them tight.
- Press a small dimple in the center of each one so they stay flat and do not puff up.
- Season both sides with Dad Spice The Classic.
- Grill over medium-high heat. Flip once.
- Add cheese in the last minute, then rest the burgers 2 to 3 minutes before you build them.
Want the full recipe with all the steps? Try our perfect burgers recipe.
Common burger mistakes
The biggest one is pressing the patty with a spatula. It looks cool, but it squeezes the juice right out. Another is flipping too often. Let one side cook, flip once, and let the other side cook. That builds a better crust.
Frequently asked questions
How long do you grill burgers?
For a half-inch patty over medium-high heat, cook about 3 to 4 minutes per side for medium. Thicker patties need a little more time.
What temperature should burgers be cooked to?
Ground beef is safe at 160°F. Use a meat thermometer in the center of the patty to check.
How long do you grill burgers for medium-rare?
About 2 to 3 minutes per side, pulling at 130 to 135°F. Note that the USDA recommends 160°F for ground beef.
Should you grill burgers with the lid open or closed?
Closed. A closed lid keeps the heat even, melts cheese well, and helps thick patties cook through.
Make it taste better.
Grab a bottle of The Classic and season like you mean it.
