We usually add condiments to a burger once it comes off the grill. While it’s hard to imagine doing it any other way, brushing burgers with yellow mustard as they’re cooking seals in the juices and makes them even more delicious!
Although this trick is unique, it’s been around for quite some time. Cooking consultant J. Kenji López-Alt explained on Serious Eats that mustard-grilled burgers are a staple menu item at the popular California-based fast food chain In-N-Out. After the patty is done cooking on one side, yellow mustard gets slathered on top of their burgers before flipping and finishing cooking.
Adding mustard to one side of the burger creates a nice crust as it sits on the grill and helps lock in those yummy juices. Plus, its slight tanginess gives it a major flavor boost. Basically, a couple of squirts of mustard is the key to better tasting burgers!
To recreate this restaurant tip at home, the experts at Char-Broil suggest preheating your grill to 400 degrees Fahrenheit before placing eight 1/4 pound beef patties seasoned with salt and pepper on the hot grates. Let the burgers grill on one side for three to four minutes then brush each one with 1/2 tablespoon of yellow mustard.
Flip and let them finish cooking mustard-side down for another three to four minutes or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Next, place a slice of American cheese on each patty, close the grill lid, and let it melt for 30 seconds until gooey. Then take the burgers off the grill and let them rest for about five minutes.
Finally, slide each burger onto a bun and dress it up with ketchup, mayo, relish or even bang bang sauce and dig in! Watch how easy it is to take your homemade burgers to the next level in the video below:
While this recipe calls for using beef patties, you can use turkey burgers for a lighter and healthier option. They’ll be just as tasty if you cook them on the stovetop for those days when the weather doesn’t allow you to grill outside.
We love simple hacks like this and a guarantee that everyone will be satisfied at your next BBQ. Check out our guide for how to reheat burgers to turn any leftovers into a delicious lunch the next day, too!
