From Frozen to Fabulous: Your Guide to Cooking Perfect Burger Patties

In a world of instant gratification, having a stack of frozen burger patties at your disposal could mean a quick, savory meal is just a few minutes away. Moreover, some experts swear that you SHOULD cook burgers from frozen as it helps the burger retain moisture, yielding a juicier burger.

Full disclaimer? I prefer to cook thawed burgers... it just feels natural. But a lot of times I forget to thaw them out... so this is why I did this research and experimenting.

Whether it's a spontaneous barbecue invite or a last-minute dinner idea, frozen patties can indeed be a lifesaver. But how do you ensure they turn out juicy and flavorful, not dry and tasteless? Here's your guide to turning those frozen disks into a mouthwatering feast.

Preparing Your Patties

While seasoning is the soul of a burger, when you start with amazing beef (such as the one Meat N' Bone sells) you can skip the seasoning.. but do use salt!

All in all, even if your patties are frozen, don't skip the seasoning. A good sprinkle of salt and pepper, and perhaps a hint of garlic powder or your favorite herb mix can elevate the taste. 

Cooking a Frozen Patty

We recommend going for medium or medium rate. When cooking a frozen burger patty to a medium level of doneness, it may take a little longer compared to a thawed patty due to the frozen state. A general guideline might be to cook it on medium heat for around 5-7 minutes on each side. However, the exact time can vary based on the thickness of the patty and your cooking appliance. It's advisable to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for around 145°F to 160°F (63°C to 71°C) to ensure it's cooked to your desired level of doneness.

It may take some experimentation... but learning how to cook a burger patty from a frozen state does pay off!

Cheese, Please!

If you fancy a cheeseburger, add a slice of cheese once you've flipped the patty. The remaining cooking time will perfectly melt the cheese onto the patty.

Bacon does wonders as well. Other ideas? Fig Jam. Yep. You could even go crazier and add caviar!

The Don’ts of Frozen Patty Cooking

1. Avoid High Heat: High heat can char the outside while the inside remains cold. Stick to medium or medium-low heat for an evenly cooked patty.
2. No Pressing: Don’t press down on the patty while it’s cooking. This will only squeeze out the precious juices and result in a dry burger.
3. Skip the Flip: Limit flipping to once. Over-flipping can result in loss of juices and a less tender patty.

With these tips in your arsenal, you're well on your way to mastering the art of cooking frozen burger patties. Whether a standard patty or a hefty 1/2 lb delight, following these guidelines will ensure a juicy, flavorful burger every time. So, the next time you find yourself reaching for that stack of frozen patties, fear not. A satisfying, hearty meal is just a few flips away!