Craving juicy, cookout-style burgers but don’t have a grill? This cast iron + oven method delivers big flavor with zero flames. It’s all about high heat, a solid sear, and a quick oven finish that locks in the juices.
1. Preheat the Pan
Place your cast iron skillet on the stovetop and heat it on high for 4 to 5 minutes—until it’s smoking hot. That intense heat creates a golden, savory crust on your burgers, thanks to the Maillard reaction (a scientific process that happens when heat meets protein and natural sugars in your food).
2. Sear the Burgers
Add your burger patties and let them sit untouched for 2 to 3 minutes per side. Don’t press or flip too early—this stillness is what builds that rich, crusty exterior and locks in flavor.
3. Finish in the Oven
Once both sides are seared, carefully move the entire skillet into a preheated, 400°F oven. Cook for 5 to 8 minutes, depending on patty thickness (about 1 inch for a standard 1/3-pound burger) and your desired doneness:
Medium Rare: ~5 minutes
Medium: 6 to 7 minutes
Well Done: 8+ minutes
4. Want cheese?
Add it in the last 2 minutes of oven time and loosely tent with foil to melt.
5. Let ‘Em Rest
Once out of the oven, let the burgers rest for 3 to 5 minutes. This keeps the juices where you want them—in the burger, not on the plate. While your burgers rest, toast the buns right in the hot skillet for a perfect finish.
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