Why You’ll Love this Well-Done Hamburgers on a Charcoal Grill Recipe
When you fire up the charcoal grill for these well-done hamburgers, you’ll discover a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist.
The smoky flavor from the charcoal adds a depth that gas grills just can’t replicate. I love watching the sear marks form as the burgers cook, sealing in all the juicy goodness.
Plus, the aroma wafting through the air is simply intoxicating. Each bite is a perfect blend of tenderness and char, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
You’ll also appreciate how easy it’s to customize your burgers with favorite toppings.
Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked on grilling well-done hamburgers on a charcoal grill for your next barbecue adventure.
Ingredients of Well-Done Hamburgers on a Charcoal Grill
When it comes to making well-done hamburgers on a charcoal grill, the ingredients you use can make all the difference. I mean, we’re not just throwing any old thing on the grill here; we want juicy, flavorful burgers that will leave your friends asking for seconds.
So, let’s gather our supplies and get ready to rock that grill. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these tasty patties that can turn any barbecue into a memorable feast.
- 1 slice of good quality white bread, crust removed and cut into 1/4-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons of milk
- 3/4 teaspoon of salt
- 3/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper
- 1 medium garlic clove, minced
- 2 teaspoons of steak sauce (like A-1)
- 1 1/2 lbs of lean ground chuck (or ground turkey if you’re feeling adventurous)
- 6 ounces of sliced cheese (your choice, but cheddar is a classic)
- 4 hamburger buns
Now, as you’re gathering these ingredients, keep a few things in mind. The quality of your ground meat is super important, so don’t skimp here—lean ground chuck gives you that perfect balance of flavor and juiciness.
And if you’re going for turkey, just remember that it can dry out a bit faster, so watch those grilling times closely. Also, that slice of bread mixed with milk? It’s not just filler; it helps keep your burgers moist and tender.
You’ll be amazed at how such simple ingredients can come together to create something truly delicious. Now, are you ready to plunge into the grilling process? Let’s get cooking!
How to Make Well-Done Hamburgers on a Charcoal Grill
Alright, folks, let’s plunge into the art of making well-done hamburgers on a charcoal grill. It’s simpler than it sounds, and trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
First off, grab that 1 slice of good quality white bread, and without hesitation, remove the crust and chop it into 1/4-inch pieces. Then, in a large bowl, mash those bread pieces together with 2 tablespoons of milk until it’s all one satisfying, gooey mixture. This isn’t just some random step; this little trick helps keep your burgers moist and tender – kind of like a secret weapon in your grilling arsenal.
Next, add in 3/4 teaspoon of salt, 3/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper, 1 medium minced garlic clove, and 2 teaspoons of steak sauce (A-1 is a great choice here if you want that extra kick).
Now for the fun part: break up 1 1/2 lbs of lean ground chuck (or ground turkey if you’re feeling adventurous) into small pieces over your bread mixture. Using your hands or a fork, gently mix everything together until it forms a cohesive mass. Don’t overdo it, though; we’re not making meatballs here.
Once it’s mixed, divide the meat into 4 equal portions and shape them into patties. You want them to be about 3/4-inch thick and 4 1/2 inches in diameter. Remember to press the center down a bit; this helps them cook evenly – nobody wants a burger that puffs up like a balloon.
Now, let’s get that charcoal grill fired up. Lightly dip a wad of paper towels in vegetable oil and carefully wipe down the grill grate with tongs. You’ll want to grill those burgers on the hot side of the grill, uncovered, for about 2-4 minutes until they’re nicely seared on one side.
Flip them with a wide metal spatula, and keep grilling for about 4 more minutes. If you’re feeling cheesy (and who isn’t?), toss on 6 ounces of sliced cheese about 2 minutes before you think they’re done, covering them with some aluminum foil to melt that cheese to perfection.
While the burgers are grilling, don’t forget to toast your 4 hamburger buns on the cooler side of the grill. Once everything is ready, pile up those juicy burgers on the buns and dress them up with your favorite toppings.
And there you have it—delicious, well-done hamburgers that are sure to make you the star of any cookout.
Well-Done Hamburgers on a Charcoal Grill Substitutions & Variations
Now that you’ve got the basics for making those juicy well-done hamburgers on the charcoal grill, let’s explore some substitutions and variations that can elevate your burger game.
Instead of using lean ground chuck, try ground turkey or bison for a unique flavor. For a smoky twist, mix in a teaspoon of smoked paprika or chipotle powder.
If you want to spice things up, incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of Worcestershire sauce into the meat. You can also swap out the white bread for whole wheat or even crushed crackers for added texture.
Finally, experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or blue cheese for a gourmet touch. These variations can truly enhance your grilling experience!
What to Serve with Well-Done Hamburgers on a Charcoal Grill
While grilling up those delicious well-done hamburgers, I like to think about the perfect sides that can elevate the meal. A classic coleslaw adds a crunchy, invigorating contrast that pairs beautifully with the savory flavor of the burgers.
I also love serving crispy roasted potatoes or sweet potato fries for a satisfying side. Grilled corn on the cob, brushed with butter and sprinkled with salt, is another favorite that brings a bit of summer to the table.
Don’t forget a vibrant garden salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the meat. Finally, some pickles or jalapeños can add that extra zing, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Enjoy your feast!
Additional Tips & Notes
Grilling hamburgers to perfection requires a few extra considerations to enhance the overall experience. First, make sure your grill is preheated properly; a hot grill sears the patties, locking in juices and flavor.
I also recommend using a meat thermometer; for well-done burgers, aim for an internal temperature of 160°F. Remember to let the patties rest for a few minutes after grilling; this helps redistribute the juices.
Don’t skimp on toppings—fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and crunchy pickles can elevate your burger. Finally, experiment with different cheeses and sauces to find your favorite combination.
Grilling’s all about enjoying the process, so have fun and don’t hesitate to get creative with your flavors!