How Long to Cook Ground Beef 🥩
Ground beef is held to a higher safety standard than whole steaks because grinding distributes surface bacteria throughout the meat. USDA minimum is 160°F (71°C) — no exceptions, no medium-rare.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature should ground beef be cooked to?
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Ground beef must reach 160°F (71°C) internal per USDA. Unlike whole steaks, ground beef cannot be served rare or medium-rare because grinding distributes surface bacteria throughout the meat.
How long do I cook a burger on the grill?
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A ¾-inch burger patty takes 8–10 minutes total on a 450°F grill, flipping once at the 4-minute mark. Verify 160°F internal before serving.
Can I cook frozen burgers?
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Yes. Add ~5 minutes total versus thawed. 13–16 minutes on the grill at 450°F. Never press the patty during cooking — it squeezes out fat and moisture.
Why can steak be rare but not a burger?
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Whole steaks have bacteria only on the surface, which gets seared off. Grinding distributes that surface bacteria throughout the meat, so the entire patty must reach a pasteurization temperature (160°F).