How Long to Cook Hamburgers (Beef)
Ground beef hamburger patties, fresh or frozen.
The Short Answer
In the oven at 400°F, hamburgers (beef) takes 15–20 minutes. The USDA-recommended safe internal temperature is 160°F, verified with an instant-read thermometer in the thickest part. Scroll down for all cooking methods, detailed instructions, and tips from the Professor.
Always verify with an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part.
Cooking Methods
🔥 Oven
Temperature: 400°F
Time: 15–20 minutes
Rest: 3 minutes
On a wire rack over a sheet pan for even cooking. Broil the last 2 minutes for a crust.
🔥 Grill
Temperature: 450°F
Time: 4–5 minutes
Rest: 3 minutes
Per side over direct heat. Do not press down on the patty; that squeezes out juices. Flip only once.
🍳 Stovetop
Time: 4–5 minutes
Rest: 3 minutes
Per side over medium-high heat. Use a cast iron skillet for the best crust. Add cheese in the last minute and cover to melt.
The number one mistake with burgers: pressing them flat on the grill with a spatula. That satisfying sizzle? That is your juices leaving permanently. Flip once, do not press, and use a thermometer.
Frequently Asked Questions
For ground beef, the USDA recommends 160 degrees F throughout. Unlike whole steaks, grinding distributes bacteria throughout the meat, so pink in the middle may not be safe. Use a thermometer.
The Bottom Line
Hamburgers (Beef) is straightforward to cook when you know the time and temperature. The most important number to remember is 160°F internal. An instant-read thermometer is the only reliable way to confirm doneness; color and firmness are not accurate indicators. Use the method that fits your equipment and schedule, and always let the food rest before cutting or serving. Resting allows juices to redistribute and carryover cooking to finish the job.
Source: USDA Safe Minimum Internal Temperatures | Last verified: March 19, 2026