The Ultimate Smoked Burgers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These smoked burgers are not your average backyard burgers. The key is the smoking process, which imparts a deep, woodsy flavor that takes the flavor profile to a whole new level. The combination of a juicy 80/20 ground chuck patty, seasoned with just the right amount of salt, pepper, and garlic powder (optional), creates a burger that’s perfectly seasoned and tender. Add the fresh toppings—like crispy lettuce, ripe tomato slices, and a toasted bun—and you’ve got a burger that’s both satisfying and delicious. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a truly memorable burger experience.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds ground chuck (80/20 blend of lean to fat, making four 6-ounce patties; two pounds makes four 8-ounce patties)
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 4 hamburger buns, split and toasted
• 4 slices tomatoes
• Lettuce
• Assorted condiments (such as ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, pickles, etc.)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the patties: In a bowl, combine the ground chuck with kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Gently mix the ingredients together, being careful not to overwork the meat. Form the mixture into four equal-sized patties, about 6 ounces each (or 8 ounces if using 2 pounds of meat).
2. Preheat the smoker: Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). If you’re using wood chips, select a wood variety that complements beef, such as hickory, mesquite, or oak. Allow the smoker to reach a steady temperature.
3. Smoke the patties: Place the patties on the smoker grate and close the lid. Smoke the burgers for about 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired level of doneness (for medium, aim for 160°F/71°C).
4. Toast the buns: While the burgers are smoking, lightly toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in the oven. This step adds a crispy texture and helps prevent the buns from getting soggy when the burgers are assembled.
5. Assemble the burgers: Once the patties are done smoking, remove them from the smoker and let them rest for a few minutes. Place the patties on the toasted buns and top each one with a slice of tomato, lettuce, and your choice of condiments.
6. Serve: Serve the smoked burgers immediately while they’re still juicy and hot. Enjoy with your favorite side dishes like fries, potato salad, or coleslaw!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 45 minutes (plus resting time)
• Total time: 55 minutes (or more if you want to rest the patties longer)

Variations

• Cheesy smoked burgers: Add a slice of your favorite cheese (cheddar, Swiss, American, etc.) to the patties during the last few minutes of smoking to melt it perfectly over the top.
• Spicy smoked burgers: Add some spicy condiments like hot sauce or jalapeños for a fiery kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover smoked burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the burgers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or on the grill for 3-5 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef. However, these meats will not have the same fat content and may dry out more easily, so it’s important to monitor the cooking process and keep them juicy.

How can I make sure my burgers are juicy?

The key to juicy burgers is using ground chuck with a good fat-to-lean ratio (80/20). Also, avoid pressing down on the patties while they cook, as this can release the juices.

Do I need to use a smoker for this recipe?

While a smoker enhances the flavor, you can also cook the burgers on a regular grill. Just be sure to use indirect heat to achieve a similar effect, and consider adding wood chips to the grill for a smoky flavor.

Can I make the patties ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the patties in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before smoking or grilling. This helps the flavors meld together as well.

What should the internal temperature be for a medium burger?

For a medium burger, the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature for perfect results.

Can I freeze the patties before smoking?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked patties. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for storage. When ready to cook, smoke the patties directly from frozen, but increase the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes.

What kind of wood chips should I use for smoking burgers?

Hickory, mesquite, and oak are all excellent choices for smoking beef, providing a robust, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with burgers. Avoid using overly sweet wood like fruitwood, as it can overpower the beef.

How do I know when the burgers are done smoking?

The burgers should be smoked until they reach your desired level of doneness, which you can measure with a meat thermometer. For medium burgers, aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Can I use a gas grill instead of a smoker?

Yes, you can use a gas grill if you don’t have a smoker. To achieve a smoky flavor, you can add wood chips in a smoker box or wrap them in foil and place them on the grill.

How can I make these burgers even more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor, consider adding finely chopped onions or garlic to the meat mixture before forming the patties. You can also mix in some Worcestershire sauce or smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavor.

Conclusion

The Ultimate Smoked Burgers take your standard burger to the next level with a smoky twist that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re smoking them low and slow on a smoker or adapting the recipe to a grill, these burgers are guaranteed to be juicy, flavorful, and packed with that delicious smoky goodness. Add your favorite toppings, pair it with some crispy fries, and enjoy a truly unforgettable burger experience!

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