The Best Hamburger Recipe
GLUTEN FREE II DAIRY FREE II NIGHTSHADE FREE II SESAME FREE II FISH FREE II SHELLFISH FREE II SOY FREE II EGG FREE
If you’ve been searching for the best homemade hamburgers, this is your answer. This tasty hamburger recipe brings together fresh ingredients and juicy hamburger patties, with no gluten or dairy in sight. Everything is easy to customise, so everyone gets their perfect burger. Fire up your grill, gather your toppings, and get ready for burgers that really impress.
I mixed in a blend of spices for this juicy hamburger recipe and added plenty of toppings and flavour boosters so you can create your own favourite version. Every bite is packed with taste and choices, making this hamburger a real treat.
Notes on ingredients for the best hamburgers in town!
Ingredient lists and recipes may change on the brands I recommend. Always check product labels to ensure they are suitable for your diet. If uncertain, contact the manufacturer directly.
Beef
I used organic grass-fed minced beef for the burger patties. You can opt for minced chicken, turkey or lamb if you prefer. I find that with organic meat, there isn't a lot of oil or water, if any, that seeps out whilst cooking. I know the cheaper quality minced meat contains a lot of fat, and in that case, grill the burgers so that the fat juices run out.
Spices
I know usually you don't really add spices to beef burger patties, but I always think that they taste very bland. Being Indian, I have to eat everything with lots of flavour, so the spices I used are:
Garlic and onion powder - Great base flavour
Sweet smoked paprika - Creates a beautiful smoky flavour
Cumin - Creates a lovely earthy neutral warming flavour that mingles well with the other spices
Garam masala - Adds depth of flavour and a hint of background spiciness
Eggs
Eggs add softness to the burger, and I would not omit this unless, of course, you are allergic or cannot eat eggs, and in that case, do not worry, just be careful not to overcook the burger patty so the burger stays juicy.
Breadcrumbs
Many people add breadcrumbs to beef burgers for extra moisture, a firmer texture, or to stretch the mixture. I’ve found they don’t make much difference and prefer to skip them. I avoid yeast as well, so leaving out breadcrumbs works better for me. I also like to keep my beef burgers simple and skip anything too processed. If you want to use breadcrumbs, go ahead, but make sure they fit your dietary needs.
This version works well if you want gluten free beef burgers or just need the best beef burger recipe with easy steps. You get classic beef burgers with simple ingredients that taste great every time.
Cheese
Dairy free cheese can be so hit and miss, with most of them tasting like someone died in your mouth! I have tried most cheeses on the market, and the one I find the nicest is by Cathedral City. They do a plant based mature and extra mature cheddar, which I love. If you havent tried it then I highly reccomend you do.
Ingredients
Why you will love this gluten free hamburger recipe
Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, no complicated ingredients needed.
Customisable: Easy to adapt with your favourite toppings and sauces.
Perfect for Any Occasion: From summer barbecues to weeknight dinners.
Juicy and Flavorful: Perfectly seasoned with a hint of spice and cooked to perfection.
Unique Recipe: You won't find another dish like this one. It's warm, a little spicy, and has a touch of smoky flavour. Not bland and boring like most beef burger recipes!
Batch cooking: Im a huge fan of batch cooking, just double or triple this recipe and freeze the hamburger patties raw, and take out of the freezer the day you want to eat the burger so it thaws out.
Serving Suggestions for Homemade Hamburger Patties
Here are some healthy sides to serve alongside your homemade hamburgers:
Serve with oven baked sweet potato fries or courgette fries for a healthier side.
Add a side salad with a tangy dressing like my apple cider vinegar dressing recipe.
Pair with a creamy coleslaw for extra crunch.
Wrap in lettuce leaves for a low carb burger option or try my carrot tacos recipe which can double up as a substitute bread option.
Tips for the Best HamBurgers
Use 80/20 beef for maximum juiciness. 80% meat and 20% fat content.
Don’t press down on the patties while cooking it squeezes out the juices.
Let the burgers rest for 3 minutes before serving.
Make patties ahead of time and freeze for quick future meals.
FAQ’s
What’s the secret to a good hamburger recipe?
A great burger starts with high quality minced beef that has the right amount of fat, usually an 80/20 mix. The way you shape the patty matters mix the meat just enough and press a slight dip in the middle so it cooks evenly.
Cook the patty on high heat to get a good crust, and never press it down while it cooks so you keep the juices inside. Choose a toasted bun that stays firm and doesn’t fall apart. Add fresh toppings, like crunchy lettuce, sharp pickles, melted dairy free cheese, and, if you like, crispy bacon.
Each layer should add flavour and bring everything together for a delicious, juicy burger that’s satisfying from the first bite to the last.
The Patty
Minced Beef:
Aim for an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for the best balance of flavour and moisture; too lean can result in a dry burger.
Grind Quality:
A coarser grind can trap juices and provide more texture, though a finer grind is acceptable for smash burgers.
Don't Over-Mix:
Handle the minced beef gently to avoid a tough texture.
Shape:
Gently form the patties and create a slight dimple in the centre to prevent the burger from bulging during cooking.
The Cooking Process
High Heat: Sear the burger patties over high heat to develop a flavorful crust.
Flip Often: Flip the burger frequently to promote even cooking and faster results.
Avoid Pressing: Resist the urge to press down on the burger with a spatula, as this squeezes out valuable juices and fat.
Toast the Buns: Toasting the burger buns creates a better textural barrier and helps them stand up to the juices.
What’s the best hamburger sauce? Try this recipe:
3 tbsp mayonnaise
2 tbsp ketchup
25g cornichons, drained and finely chopped
1 tbsp American mustard not regular mustard, as it’s too sharp and hot
I like to add 4 tbsp mayo with a tsp of sriracha and 2 tbsp ketchup to create a spicier burger sauce
What are the best burger toppings?
Try these popular burger toppings:
Bacon, fried eggs, cheese, tomatoes, red onion, lettuce, jalapenos, guacamole, pickles, coleslaw, avocado or caramelised onions.
How long should you grill a burger for?
Here are the times for grilling hamburgers:
Medium-rare: 6–7 minutes total.
Medium: 7–8 minutes total.
Medium-well: 9 minutes total.
Well done: 10 minutes total.
How long to cook hamburgers in oven?
375°F (190°C): Cook for approximately 20-25 minutes for medium-rare, or 25-30 minutes for well-done burgers.
400°F (200°C): Bake for about 12-15 minutes.
200°C (180°C fan): Bake for around 20 minutes.
Got a question you don’t see here? Leave a comment below!
Makes 4 burger patties - 45 mins prep & cooking time
Step by Step
Recipe
400g minced beef
1 egg
1 tsp onion powder/granules
1 tsp garlic powder
2 tsp sweet smoked paprika
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp garam masala
1 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp black cracked pepper
2 tbsp oil to fry the burgers
Method
Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl (except the oil)
Divide the beef patty mixture into 4 even portions and shape into round burger patties.
Heat a pan with oil over medium-high heat, add the burgers, and then reduce the heat to medium. Cook the burgers for 4-5 minutes per side to develop a crust, flipping only once, until they reach your desired internal temperature. OR take a look at the FAQ section above for the exact cooking times for grilling a burger patty, and pan frying it will be similar times.
Finally, rest the cooked burgers for at least five minutes to allow the juices to redistribute before serving.
Other recipes you might like
Carrot tacos - great to use as a burger bun instead of using gluten free bread.
Crispy seasoned potato wedges - great to serve alongside these homemade burger patties.
Loaded burger bowls - a burger in a bowl easy and delicious.
Spicy beanburgers - A delicious plant-based version
Harrissa sweet potato wedges - a really yummy side to serve with this homemade burger recipe.
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