How To Grill Frozen Burgers

Forgot to thaw your burgers? No worries! You can still have a delicious cookout with frozen patties. Here's how to turn those icy pucks into juicy burgers, whether you're team gas or team charcoal.

What You'll Need

• Frozen burger patties (duh!)
• Your grill (gas or charcoal, we've got you covered)
• Spatula (for flipping and feeling like a grill master)
• Meat thermometer (super helpful for frozen burgers)
• Salt and pepper (or your favorite seasoning)
• Buns and toppings (because a naked burger is a sad burger)

The Grilling Process

For Gas Grill Users

1. Preheat: Crank that grill up to high heat. We're talking 450°F to 500°F. Frozen patties need the heat!
2. Season: While the grill's heating, season your frozen patties with salt and pepper (or your secret spice mix).
3. Grill Time:
   • Place those frosty discs on the grill and close the lid.
   • Grill for about 5-7 minutes.
   • Flip 'em and grill for another 5-7 minutes with the lid closed.
4. Check the Temp: You're aiming for 160°F internal temperature for food safety. Use that meat thermometer!
5. Finish Up: If needed, keep grilling in 1-minute increments until you hit the magic 160°F.

For Charcoal Grill Users

1. Light 'Em Up: Get your coals going. Once they're ashed over (about 15-20 minutes), spread them out evenly.
2. Heat Check: Hold your hand about 5 inches above the grate. If you can only keep it there for 2-3 seconds, you're good to go.
3. Season: While waiting for the coals, season those frozen patties.
4. Grill Time:
   • Place the burgers directly over the hot coals.
   • Grill for about 4-5 minutes with the lid open.
   • Flip 'em and grill for another 4-5 minutes.
5. Lid On: Close the lid and continue grilling for another 2-3 minutes to ensure they're cooked through.
6. Temp Check: Again, you're shooting for that 160°F internal temp.

Pro Tips

• Don't press down on the burgers with your spatula. You'll squeeze out all the juicy goodness!
• For cheese lovers: add a slice of cheese during the last minute of grilling and close the lid to melt it perfectly.
• Toast those buns! A minute on the grill makes a world of difference.
• Let the burgers rest for a minute or two before serving. It helps keep them juicy.

Safety First

• Always cook frozen burgers to 160°F internal temperature. No pink centers here!
• Don't partially grill and finish later. Once you start, keep going until they're fully cooked.

Topping Ideas

Get creative with your burger bar:

• Classic: lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles
• Gourmet: caramelized onions, avocado, bacon
• Spicy kick: jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, chipotle mayo

There you have it! You're now equipped to turn those frozen patties into backyard barbecue gold. Whether you're grilling on gas or charcoal, you've got the know-how to impress your guests (and yourself). Happy grilling, and may your burgers be ever juicy!