Homemade Hamburger Patties are the weeknight dinner hero we all need. Juicy, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes, these patties keep dinner simple without skimping on taste. With just one bowl and a skillet, you’ve got a meal that satisfies picky eaters and hungry teens alike. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you wonder why you ever bothered with frozen burgers.
Why This Homemade Hamburger Patties Is a Weeknight Win
- Fast prep: You can have these patties ready in just 10 minutes.
- Easy cleanup: You only need one bowl and a skillet.
- Big flavor: Simple seasonings bring out the natural taste of the beef.
How to Make Homemade Hamburger Patties (3 Steps & Timing)
Prepare the mixture (10 minutes):
In a large bowl, gently combine 1.5 lbs of ground beef (80/20 blend recommended), 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, and 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion. Be careful not to overmix. Then, add 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce and mix gently until combined.
Shape the patties (5 minutes):
Divide the meat mixture into 4 equal portions, about 6 ounces each. Shape each portion into a patty that is about 3/4 inch thick. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from bulging while cooking.
Cooking (10 minutes):
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the patties to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until they reach your preferred doneness. A meat thermometer should show 130°F for medium-rare or 160°F for well-done. Once done, remove the patties from the skillet and let them rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Ingredients You will Need:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Quick Sides & Serving Ideas
- Simple mixed green salad
- Sweet potato fries
- Classic coleslaw
- Easy barbecue sauce for dipping
Storage & Reheat (No Soggy Leftovers)
Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat without sogginess, use an air fryer or oven at 350°F until heated through.
Got Leftovers? Make Them Work for You
Leftovers don’t have to be boring. Most of the time they’re a head start on tomorrow’s meal. Toss roasted veggies into eggs, turn last night’s chicken into wraps, or freeze soups for a lazy-night rescue. The trick is storing them right and keeping it simple. That way, instead of another chore, leftovers feel like a shortcut. See more easy ideas here and make the most of what you’ve got.
10-Minute Prep & Time-Saving Shortcuts
- Use pre-chopped onion to save time.
- Grab a rotisserie chicken for a side.
- Buy bagged coleslaw mix for an easy side salad.
- Prepare patties ahead of time and freeze for later use.
Smart Swaps & Variations
- Swap ground turkey for ground beef for a leaner option.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce instead of Worcestershire for less salt.
- Feel free to add chopped herbs like parsley for a fresh twist.
- Use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps if you’re avoiding gluten.
Craving Something Quick and Crave-Worthy?
Lazy Bites is my go-to spot for those snack cravings that hit out of nowhere. Cheesy pulls, sweet bites, and sides that come together fast no fuss, no fancy prep. Whether it’s a lazy Saturday, a game night spread, or just a quick fix before dinner, these recipes are made to hit the spot without stealing your time. Grab a bite now and keep it easy.
Homemade Hamburger Patties
Ingredients
For the patties
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion Press out excess moisture before mixing.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For cooking.
Instructions
Preparation
- Add Worcestershire sauce and mix gently until combined.
Shaping Patties
- Divide the meat mixture into 4 equal portions, about 6 ounces each.
- Shape each portion into a patty about 3/4 inch thick, making a small indentation in the center to prevent bulging while cooking.
Cooking
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the patties to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until they reach your preferred doneness.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for 130°F for medium-rare or 160°F for well-done.
- Remove patties from skillet and let them rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Notes
Nutrition
Lazy Cook’s Pro Tips
A couple of small tweaks can save you time every week. Line sheet pans with parchment for zero scrubbing, keep pre-chopped garlic in the fridge for instant flavor, and double-batch sauces so you’ve got a backup for busy nights. Little shortcuts like these keep dinners easy without giving up taste. See more time-saving tips here and make cooking less of a chore.
FAQs About Homemade Hamburger Patties Recipe
Can I make homemade hamburger patties ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can shape the patties and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap so they don’t dry out. If you’re planning further ahead, freeze them on a sheet pan first, then move to a freezer bag. That way, they don’t stick together and you can pull out as many as you need.
What’s the best way to keep patties from shrinking?
The secret is making a small thumbprint in the center of each patty before cooking. That little dent keeps the burger from puffing up in the middle. Also, avoid pressing down with the spatula while cooking it squeezes out the juices and makes the patties dry.
How do I reheat hamburger patties without drying them out?
Skip the microwave if you can. Instead, pop the patties in a 350°F oven or air fryer for 5–8 minutes until heated through. This keeps the outside crisp while the inside stays juicy. If you’re short on time, the microwave works, but cover the patty with a damp paper towel to trap some moisture.
Can I add cheese directly into the patty?
Yes, you can. Mixing shredded cheese right into the beef adds an extra layer of flavor and gooey pockets inside the burger. Just know that it makes the patties a little more delicate, so handle gently. A good sharp cheddar or pepper jack works especially well.
Wrapping It Up
Homemade Hamburger Patties are proof that dinner doesn’t need to be complicated to be delicious. With just a few pantry staples and 25 minutes, you’ll have burgers that put takeout to shame. They’re juicy, full of flavor, and easy enough for even the busiest nights. Grab a skillet, shape your patties, and serve them up with your favorite sides dinner’s done, and the family’s happy.
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