How Long to Cook Hamburgers to Medium Well: Temperature and Safety Tips

The age-old question of how long to cook hamburgers to medium well has puzzled many home cooks and restaurant chefs alike. While the time it takes to cook hamburgers may seem straightforward, it's important to understand that cooking time alone is not the only determining factor. Instead, the key to cooking your burgers to a medium well is achieving the correct internal temperature. In this article, we'll explore the ideal cooking times for hamburgers and the importance of using a meat thermometer.

General Guidelines for Cooking Medium Well Hamburgers

To cook hamburgers to a medium well, aim for an internal temperature of about 150-160°F (65-71°C). The following are general guidelines for cooking times, emphasizing the use of a meat thermometer for accuracy:

Grilling

Grill your hamburgers over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side. This results in a total cooking time of approximately 12-14 minutes, plus an additional 3-5 minutes to rest.

Pan-Frying

Similar to grilling, pan-fry your burgers over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side. Adjust the heat as needed to maintain even cooking across the patties.

Baking

Alternatively, place the patties in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 150-160°F (65-71°C) before removing from the oven.

Avoid Inaccuracies: Using a Meat Thermometer

While cooking times can vary based on factors such as heat source, heat intensity, cookware, and thickness, the most reliable method to ensure medium well burgers is by using a meat thermometer. An instant read probe thermometer is highly recommended for its accuracy and durability. A great option from the ThermoWorks line can last for many years, making it a worthwhile investment. A new or reasonably accurate thermometer can be purchased for around 10-15 dollars.

Importance of Using a Thermometer

The ideal internal temperature for a medium well hamburger is 150-155°F (65-68°C). This temperature ensures a well-cooked, juicy, and flavorful burger. However, it is important to note that this is not the recommended temperature according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Their guidelines suggest a temperature of 160-165°F (71-74°C) for safety purposes.

Additional Considerations

Several factors can affect the cooking time:

Thawing and Freshness: If the burgers are frozen or pre-made, the cooking time may vary. Cooking time may need to be extended for larger or thicker patties. Start Temperature: The temperature of the burger at the start of cooking can also impact cooking time. Ensure the patties are at room temperature before cooking for even results. Cooking Equipment: Different grill, pan, or oven settings can lead to variations in cooking times.

Using a well-calibrated thermometer ensures you can consistently achieve the desired medium well temperature under the same conditions. Once you determine the correct cooking time for your method, it will be easier to replicate in future cooking sessions.

Conclusion

To achieve perfectly cooked medium well hamburgers, the key is not the cooking time but the precise internal temperature. Although cooking times can vary, a meat thermometer is your best ally to ensure accuracy. Invest in a reliable thermometer, stick to the recommended temperature range, and you'll be enjoying consistently delicious medium well hamburgers every time.