Hi there! I'm a culinary expert with a passion for grilling and a knack for getting the perfect char on every burger. When it comes to grilling burgers at 400°F, there are a few key factors to consider to ensure that they come out juicy, flavorful, and cooked to your preferred level of doneness.

Firstly, the thickness of the burger plays a significant role in determining the cooking time. Thicker burgers will require more time to cook through without drying out. A general rule of thumb is that a 4-ounce burger, which is about ¾ to 1 inch thick, will take approximately 5 minutes per side when grilled at 400°F. This time allows the exterior to develop a nice sear while the interior cooks evenly.

However, if you're grilling an 8-ounce burger, which is typically 1 to 1.25 inches thick, you'll need to extend the cooking time. An 8-ounce burger might take around 14 minutes per side to reach a similar level of doneness as the 4-ounce burger. Remember, these times are approximate and can vary based on the specific conditions of your grill and the heat distribution.

Another factor to consider is the temperature of the meat before it hits the grill. Starting with room temperature meat can help it cook more evenly. If the meat is cold, it may take longer to cook through, and the outside could become overcooked before the inside reaches the desired temperature.

The grill temperature is also crucial. A consistent temperature of 400°F is ideal for grilling burgers because it's hot enough to sear the meat quickly, sealing in the juices, but not so hot that it burns. If your grill's temperature fluctuates, it can affect the cooking time and the final product.

Seasoning the burger right before grilling can enhance the flavor. A simple blend of salt and pepper is often all you need, but feel free to get creative with herbs and spices. Just be sure not to over-season, as the goal is to complement the natural flavor of the beef.

When it comes to flipping, resist the urge to do it too early. Flipping the burger too soon can lead to uneven cooking and a less appealing crust. Wait until you see the burger has developed a nice sear on one side before flipping it to the other.

Checking for doneness is essential. You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For a medium-rare burger, aim for an internal temperature of 130 to 135°F. For medium, 140 to 145°F, and for well-done, 160°F or higher.

Lastly, let the burgers rest for a few minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a moist and tender burger.

In summary, grilling burgers at 400°F is an art that requires attention to detail and a bit of practice to master. By considering the thickness of the burgers, the starting temperature of the meat, maintaining a consistent grill temperature, seasoning, flipping, and resting, you can achieve perfectly grilled burgers every time.

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Cooking times vary based on the thickness of the burgers, temperature of the meat and grill temperature. For example, a 4-oz. burger takes about 5 minutes per side, while an 8-oz. burger takes about 14 minutes per side.Oct 3, 2017read more >>