Grilling burgers is a popular summer pastime, but what if you forgot to thaw your burgers before the big cookout? Don’t worry – grilling frozen burgers is a great option for those who need a quick and easy meal.
However, it’s important to know how long to grill a frozen burger to ensure that it’s cooked through and safe to eat. In this article, we’ll provide tips and tricks for grilling frozen burgers to perfection.
Preparing Frozen Burgers for Grilling
Before you start grilling your frozen burgers, it’s important to properly prepare them. First, thaw the burgers in the refrigerator overnight or in cold water for a few hours.
Once the burgers are thawed, allow them to come to room temperature before grilling. This helps ensure even cooking throughout the burger patty. Additionally, season the burgers with your favorite spices or marinade before grilling.
How Long to Grill Frozen Burgers
The general rule of thumb for grilling frozen burgers is to cook them for twice as long as you would cook fresh burgers. For example, if you would normally grill a fresh burger for 6 minutes on each side, you should grill a frozen burger for 12 minutes on each side.
However, the thickness of the burger patty can affect grilling time. For a 1/2 inch thick patty, grill for 10-12 minutes on each side. For a 3/4 inch thick patty, grill for 12-14 minutes on each side. For a 1 inch thick patty, grill for 14-16 minutes on each side.
It’s important to use a meat thermometer to ensure that your burgers are cooked to a safe temperature. The USDA recommends cooking ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F.
Tips for Grilling Frozen Burgers
To achieve the perfect grill marks on your frozen burgers, preheat your grill to high heat and brush the burgers with oil before placing them on the grill. Avoid pressing down on the burgers with a spatula, as this can cause the juices to escape and result in a dry burger.
Instead, flip the burgers only once, using a spatula to gently lift and turn them over. If the burgers are sticking to the grill, wait a few more minutes before flipping them.
Conclusion
Grilling frozen burgers is a quick and easy way to enjoy a classic summer meal. By properly preparing the burgers, knowing how long to grill them, and following a few simple tips, you can achieve perfectly cooked and delicious burgers. So fire up the grill and enjoy your frozen burgers with confidence!