If you’ve ever craved that juicy, restaurant-style burger without fussing over a grill, this technique is for you. In just about 20 minutes, you can have perfectly seared, oven-finished burgers on the table. It’s quick, delicious, and surprisingly simple—plus, many people don’t realize how easy it is to bake burgers at home.
Why Oven-Finished Burgers Are a Game-Changer
They’re fast, flavorful, and foolproof. After a brief sear in a hot skillet, a quick trip to the oven helps the burgers cook evenly all the way through. You get a gorgeous crust without any risk of undercooking or burning, and there’s less cleanup involved since you only need one oven-safe pan.
The Secret to Bold Flavor
Cast iron is your best friend here. It retains heat remarkably well, creating that signature sear on the outside of each patty. Choose 80/20 ground beef for optimal juiciness, and don’t be shy with the toppings—stack these burgers high with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and tangy condiments. For an extra touch, add a slice of your favorite cheese along with a bit of bold blue cheese right before the burgers finish baking.
Tips for the Perfect Burger
- Shape Gently: Overworking the meat leads to tougher patties.
- Thumbprint Indent: Press a small dimple in the center of each patty for even cooking.
- Use a Thermometer: Aim for 165°F for well-done beef.
- Rest and Toast: Let the burgers rest a few minutes after they come out of the oven, and always toast your buns for a delightful crunch.
Quick, Delicious, and Crowd-Pleasing
These burgers are a lifesaver on busy nights. Five minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking can yield a meal that tastes like it was made in your favorite diner. Serve them with crisp fries or a simple side salad, and you’ll have a mouthwatering dinner that’s sure to impress—even on a tight schedule.
Perfectly Seared, Oven-Finished Burgers
4
servings5
minutes15
minutesIngredients
1 pound ground beef (80/20 is ideal) or a 4-pack of fresh burger patties
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Cooking oil (such as vegetable or canola), for searing
4 buns, toasted
1/4 cup blue cheese
4 cheese slices (any desired cheese of choice)
Your favorite burger toppings (lettuce, tomato, cheese, onions, condiments, etc.)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Form the patties (if needed)
If you’re using ground beef, gently divide it into 4 equal portions (about 4 ounces each).
Shape each portion into a patty about ¾-inch thick, taking care not to overwork the meat.
Use your thumb to make a small indent in the center of each patty (this helps them cook evenly). - Season the patties
Sprinkle both sides of each patty with salt and pepper (or your favorite seasoning blend). - Preheat and oil the skillet
Place a heavy, oven-safe skillet (cast iron is great) over medium-high heat.
Add about 1 tablespoon of oil and let it heat until shimmering. - Sear the patties
Carefully place the patties in the hot skillet.
Sear for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until a deep brown crust forms. - Finish in the oven
Transfer the skillet (with the patties) into the preheated oven.
Bake for about 5 to 8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F for well-done burgers. (Use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy.) In the last two minutes of baking top with blue cheese and a cheese slice. - Rest and toast
Carefully remove the skillet from the oven and let the patties rest for a few minutes to lock in the juices.
Meanwhile, toast your burger buns (in the oven, on the stovetop, or in a toaster) - Assemble and serve
Place each patty on a toasted bun.
Top with your favorite fixings—lettuce, tomato, cheese, onions, or condiments like ketchup, mustard, or mayo.
Enjoy your perfectly seared, oven-finished burgers!
