So you're planning a burger bash, but want to avoid the grill? Cooking burgers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) is a fantastic alternative, offering consistent results and less mess. But the burning question remains: how long does it take? Let's dive into the details to ensure perfectly cooked burgers every time.
Factors Affecting Burger Cooking Time
Several factors influence how long your burgers need to bake at 350°F:
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Thickness: Thicker patties require longer cooking times than thinner ones. A thin burger might cook in 15-20 minutes, while a thick, juicy one could need 25-30 minutes or more.
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Desired Doneness: Are you a fan of rare, medium-rare, medium, medium-well, or well-done burgers? The level of doneness directly impacts cooking time. We'll break this down further below.
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Starting Temperature: Cold patties take longer to cook than those at room temperature. Allowing your patties to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking will result in more even cooking.
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Oven Variations: Ovens can vary in temperature accuracy. A thermometer is your best friend for ensuring your oven is actually at 350°F.
Cooking Time Guide for Burgers at 350°F
This guide provides approximate cooking times. Always use a meat thermometer for accuracy to ensure food safety.
| Desired Doneness | Thickness (approximate) | Cooking Time (approximate) | Internal Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rare | ½ inch | 10-15 minutes | 125-130°F (52-54°C) |
| Medium-Rare | ½ inch | 15-20 minutes | 130-140°F (54-60°C) |
| Medium | ½ inch | 20-25 minutes | 140-150°F (60-66°C) |
| Medium-Well | ½ inch | 25-30 minutes | 150-160°F (66-71°C) |
| Well-Done | ½ inch | 30+ minutes | 160°F+ (71°C+) |
| Rare | 1 inch | 15-20 minutes | 125-130°F (52-54°C) |
| Medium-Rare | 1 inch | 20-25 minutes | 130-140°F (54-60°C) |
| Medium | 1 inch | 25-30 minutes | 140-150°F (60-66°C) |
| Medium-Well | 1 inch | 30-35 minutes | 150-160°F (66-71°C) |
| Well-Done | 1 inch | 35+ minutes | 160°F+ (71°C+) |
Important Note: These are estimates. Always use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of your burgers. This is the only reliable way to ensure they're cooked to your desired level of doneness and are safe to eat.
Tips for Perfectly Baked Burgers
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Give your burgers enough space to cook evenly.
- Flip halfway: For more even browning, flip your burgers halfway through the cooking time.
- Add cheese: Top your burgers with cheese during the last few minutes of cooking to allow it to melt perfectly.
- Rest your burgers: Let your burgers rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful burger.
Mastering the Art of the Oven-Baked Burger
By following these tips and using a meat thermometer, you'll be able to bake delicious, juicy burgers every time, even without a grill. Enjoy!
