Ready to master the art of cooking perfect burgers on your Blackstone griddle? Whether you crave juicy smash burgers with a crispy crust or thick, flavorful patties cooked just right, this guide is for you.
You’ll learn simple, step-by-step tips to control heat, season your meat, and toast buns to perfection. Imagine biting into a burger that’s bursting with flavor, cooked right on your Blackstone—sounds delicious, right? Stick with me, and by the end, you’ll have everything you need to impress yourself and anyone you share your burgers with.
Let’s get grilling!
Preparing The Blackstone Griddle
Start by cleaning the Blackstone griddle thoroughly. Use a scraper to remove old food bits. Wipe the surface with a damp cloth to clear any residue. This keeps your burgers tasting fresh.
Next, apply a thin layer of seasoning oil like flaxseed or vegetable oil. Heat the griddle on medium until the oil smokes slightly. This creates a non-stick surface and protects the griddle from rust.
Preheat the griddle on medium-high heat for about 10 minutes. The surface should be hot enough to sizzle water droplets instantly. This ensures the burgers cook evenly and develop a nice crust.
For burgers, choose a heat setting around 350°F to 400°F. This temperature cooks the patties without burning the outside. Adjust heat as needed during cooking to avoid flare-ups.
Selecting Burger Ingredients
Choose ground beef with about 20% fat for juicy burgers. Fat keeps patties tender and flavorful. Avoid very lean meat to prevent dryness.
Season patties simply with salt and pepper. Sprinkle both sides just before cooking. For extra taste, add garlic powder or onion powder. Don’t over-season.
Optional toppings include cheese, lettuce, tomato, and pickles. Cooked onions or bacon add rich flavor. Choose toppings you enjoy. Keep it simple for best results.
Making Smash Burgers
Lightly coat the Blackstone griddle with high-smoke-point oil like canola or beef tallow. This prevents sticking and adds flavor.
Shape ground beef into small balls about 3-4 ounces each. Place them on the hot griddle and smash down firmly with a spatula or burger press. This creates a crispy edge.
Cook patties on high heat for about 2 minutes per side. The temperature should be around 375°F to 400°F for best results.
Once flipped, place a slice of cheese on top. Cover the patty briefly to help it melt well.
Toast the buns on the griddle for about 30 seconds until golden brown. This adds texture and flavor to your burger.
Cooking Thick Burgers
Cooking thick burgers on a Blackstone requires medium heat to cook evenly without burning. Set the griddle to a temperature around 350°F. This heat level allows the burger to cook through slowly.
Use the two-zone cooking method: one side on medium heat and the other side cooler. Start burgers on the hot side to sear the outside, then move them to the cooler side to finish cooking. This prevents burning and keeps the inside juicy.
Keep an eye on the temperature with a meat thermometer. Aim for 160°F inside for well-done burgers. Avoid guessing to ensure safety and taste.
Check the doneness by pressing the burger lightly. It should feel firm but not hard. Cut a small piece if unsure to see the color inside. Pink is medium; no pink means well-done.
Finishing Touches
Place a slice of cheese on each patty while still hot. Cover with a lid or dome. This traps heat and helps the cheese melt evenly and quickly.
For onions, cook them separately on the griddle. Use a bit of oil and cook until they are soft and golden. Other toppings like lettuce, tomato, and pickles should be fresh and ready to go.
Start assembling by placing the burger patty with melted cheese on the bottom bun. Add cooked onions and any other toppings. Finish with the top bun. Press gently so the burger holds together well.
Cleaning And Maintaining Your Griddle
Right after cooking, scrape off all food bits using a metal spatula. Pour a little water on the hot griddle to loosen stuck pieces. Wipe the surface clean with a cloth or paper towel. Avoid using soap as it can harm the seasoning.
Prevent rust by applying a thin layer of cooking oil to the griddle after cleaning. Store your Blackstone in a dry place. Cover it with a weather-resistant cover to block moisture and dust. Rust can damage the cooking surface quickly.
| Regular Maintenance Tips |
|---|
| Heat the griddle before each use to burn off residue. |
| Season the griddle monthly by applying a thin coat of oil and heating it. |
| Check screws and bolts occasionally and tighten if needed. |
| Clean grease traps after every use to prevent buildup. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do You Cook Burgers On A Blackstone Grill?
Preheat the Blackstone grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the surface. Place patties and cook 3-4 minutes per side. Add cheese, toast buns, and serve.
What Is The Best Setting On The Blackstone For Burgers?
Set the Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat (around 375°F). Cook smash burgers quickly for a crispy crust. For thick burgers, sear on high heat, then finish on medium heat for even cooking. Always lightly oil the griddle to prevent sticking.
Do You Use Oil When Cooking Burgers On Blackstone?
Yes, use a small amount of high-smoke-point oil on the Blackstone to prevent sticking and enhance burger crust.
What Is The 5 6 7 Rule For Burgers?
The 5-6-7 rule for burgers means cooking patties for 5 minutes on one side, flipping, then 6 minutes on the other side, and resting for 7 minutes before serving. This ensures even cooking, juiciness, and maximum flavor.
Conclusion
Cooking burgers on a Blackstone griddle is simple and fun. Start with clean, hot griddle and use oil to prevent sticking. Smash burgers cook fast and have a crispy edge. Thick burgers need medium heat and more time to cook through.
Toasting buns on the griddle adds extra flavor. Watch the temperature closely for best results. With practice, your burgers will taste delicious every time. Enjoy your homemade Blackstone burgers with your favorite toppings and sides. Happy grilling!
