Nothing says summer quite like firing up the grill for a juicy, homemade hamburger. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or making a quick family dinner, knowing how long to cook hamburgers on the grill is key to perfectly cooked burgers every time.
While grilling burgers is simple, a few techniques can make all the difference. In this guide, you’ll learn the ideal cook times, tips for juicy burgers, and a few common mistakes to avoid.
Start with the Right Ground Beef
Great burgers start with quality ground beef. An 80/20 blend of ground beef offers the ideal balance of flavor and juiciness, while a 90/10 blend is a leaner option that still grills beautifully.
For the best results:
- Form patties about ¾-inch thick
- Handle the meat gently—don’t overwork it
- Press a small indentation into the center of each patty to help it cook evenly
How Long to Cook Hamburgers on the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400–450°F) and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Place the burgers over direct heat, close the lid, and flip them once halfway through cooking.
| Desired Doneness |
Internal Temperature | Approximate Cook Time |
|---|---|---|
| Medium | 140–145°F | 9–10 minutes |
| Medium-Well | 150–155°F | 10–11 minutes |
| Well Done | 160°F | 11–13 minutes |
*The USDA recommends cooking ground beef to 160°F.
Tips for Juicy Grilled Hamburgers
Keep these simple tips in mind for the best results:
- Don’t press the burgers. Pressing them with a spatula releases flavorful juices.
- Flip only once. This helps create a better crust and more even cooking.
- Let them rest. Rest burgers for 3–5 minutes before serving.
- Toast the buns. Place buns cut-side down on the grill during the final minute for extra flavor.
Common Grilling Mistakes
Avoid these common pitfalls:
- Cooking over too high heat can burn the outside before the center is cooked.
- Flipping the burgers too early before a crust has formed.
- Skipping the meat thermometer and relying only on cook time.
What to Serve with Grilled Hamburgers
Complete your burger night with classic cookout sides like:
- French fries or sweet potato fries
- Potato salad
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Coleslaw
- Pasta salad
- Watermelon or fresh fruit
Looking for more inspiration? Browse the Coleman Recipe Kitchen for seasonal grilling recipes, easy side dishes, and burger ideas.
Or change things up with Coleman’s Grilled Pork Burgers for another cookout favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should you flip hamburgers on the grill?
Just once. Flipping halfway through cooking helps create a flavorful crust while ensuring even cooking.
Should you grill burgers with the lid open or closed?
Keep the lid closed whenever possible to maintain an even temperature and reduce flare-ups.
How do you know when grilled hamburgers are done?
Use an instant-read thermometer. Ground beef should reach an internal temperature of 160°F before serving.
Fire Up the Grill
Once you know how long to cook hamburgers on the grill, you’ll have everything you need to make juicy, flavorful burgers for any occasion. Pair them with your favorite toppings and classic summer sides, then explore the Coleman Recipe Kitchen for even more grilling inspiration, family-friendly recipes, and backyard barbecue favorites.