Smoked Burgers
Making smoked burgers has never been easier, or more enjoyable. Below, you will walk through a step-by-step process of how you can easily make smoked burgers, and taste for yourself how delicious they are. Get ready for mouth-watering goodness!
Smoked Hamburgers on a Pellet Grill
Smoked hamburgers on a pellet grill is an amazing dish to enjoy at any time and for any meal.
Smoked burgers are so tasty, and they can be prepared just the way you like them with an amazing flavor, with your desired toppings when you choose to smoke your burgers.
Not only do your smoked burgers on your pellet grill taste amazing, but they are also very easy to prepare.
Best Smoked Hamburgers
We are excited to walk you through a step-by-step process of how you can make the best smoked hamburgers. Smoked burgers are so easy to make, and they taste fabulous, this is definitely a recipe that you have got to try out. This recipe is great no matter what your experience level is with smoking your food. Smoked burgers are something that everyone will enjoy!
Why These Burgers Are Ridiculously Good
Are many reasons why the smoked burgers are ridiculously good. Below are some of the reasons that will help to convince you that you have got to try this recipe!
The Meat.
When you’re making smoked burgers it’s a very good idea to use 80/20 ground beef. This allows your burgers to cook to perfection, without too much fat content, but it’s still juicy enough to make amazing burgers.
Smokers & Wood.
When you’re smoking burgers, pellet grills make amazing smoked burgers. You can use whatever your favorite kind of grill is, such as Recteq, Traeger, or we use a Weber pellet grill. You can also choose any kind of wood pellets to smoke your burgers over, there are many different ones to choose from.
What Flavors of Wood Work Best for Smoking Hamburgers? Typically, we go with a mild wood such as maple, or cherry to smoke burgers. However, you can experiment with different kinds of wood, to see which flavors you prefer the best!
Forming the Patties.
When you prepare your patties, it is a good idea to make them wider than you think, as they tend to shrink up and become thick. You can also create your hamburger patties with a divot in the center which allows them to cook more evenly.
There are so many ways you can season your burgers if desired. Sometimes for smoked burgers, simple works amazingly well.
Smoking the Burgers.
The key to making delicious smoked burgers is to smoke your burger low and slow. This is usually the case with anything that you smoke. Smoked burgers pick up a delightful smoky flavor, and they simply taste amazing.
Reverse Searing.
Reverse searing your burgers is also a delicious way to finish them off and have them taste fabulous. Reverse searing is when you cook your burgers though until they are approximately 5° shy of your goal internal temperature. Once there, cook your burgers hot and fast for another few minutes to sear the outside of your burgers, finishing them off perfectly.
Searing with Smoker. There are two main ways you can reverse sear your burgers. That is to do it on your smoker or with a gas grill. To reverse sear your burgers on a smoker or pellet grill, you don’t want to cook your burgers until the internal temperature is approximately 5° shy of your desired finished temp.
Remove the burgers from your pellet grill, or place them on the top shelf, then crank the temperature of your grill higher, to approximately 450°F. Allow it to preheat, then place your burgers back onto the main grates.
Grill your burger patties on each side, flipping once until the internal temperature reaches your desired temp. Add your cheese if desired, then you are good to go.
Searing with Gas Grill. Typically, the way that we prefer to reverse sear burgers is to use a gas grill to do the searing after they have finished smoking on the pellet grill. To do that, you will smoke them until they are just shy of your internal temperature, approximately 5° less, and then fire up your gas grill or even a charcoal grill.
Get it going hot so that your internal grill’s temperature is approximately 450°F. Once hot, move your burgers from your pellet smoker to your gas grill and sear each side, flipping once, until the internal temperature reaches your desired level of doneness for your burger.
Why You Should Make Smoked Burgers
You should definitely make smoked burgers because they are amazing, so juicy and perfectly done and they taste fabulous. There is nothing that compares to a delicious smoked burger.
This smoked hamburger recipe is one you have got to try for yourself to understand how delicious it is! Now, I don’t know about you, but my taste buds are watering. Let’s jump into how you can make these delicious smoked burgers.
Smoked Burger Recipe
Equipment Needed
Smoker
Burger Press
Grill Spatula
Instant read thermometer
Smoked Burgers Recipe Ingredients
1 pound 80/20 ground beef
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp Amazing Burger seasoning (optional)
4 hamburger buns
Desired toppings
How to Smoke Burgers
Step 1: Get Everything Set Up
Before you start actually smoking your burgers it is important to prepare everything first. Start by preheating your smoker to 225°F. You will also want to prepare any toppings and buns. Then it’s time to start on your patties.
Step 2: Form the Hamburger Patties
Before you put your hamburgers into the patties, add your hamburger to a small mixing bowl and add your Worcestershire sauce and any seasonings you desire. Mix it together, then you can begin forming your hamburgers into patties.
Typically, 1 pound will nicely make four burgers that are approximately ¼ pound each. You can use a hamburger press, or you can pack them out by hand. Your goal is to get nice even burgers, they have a slight well in the center.
Step 3: Season the Smoked Hamburger Patties
We recommend seasoning your burgers before you form them into patties, or you can also add additional seasonings to the outside of your patties if desired. This especially applies if you are using frozen burger patties, or pre-made burger patties. Simply rub your desired seasonings into the outside of your patty.
Step 4: Smoke Burgers
When your smoker has preheated, and your burger patties are made, carefully add your patties to your smoker and allow them to smoke. The amount of time it takes to smoke your burgers can vary, but it may take as little as 25 minutes, or as long as 90 minutes. Keep an eye on them and check the internal temperature using an instant-read thermometer.
Step 5: Reverse Sear
When your internal temperature is just shy of your desired temp for the level of doneness for your burgers, preheat a gas grill so that it is very hot, approximately 450°F, then move your burgers from the smoker to your gas grill and reverse sear each side.
Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of your burgers to be sure they are done to your liking. If desired, you can add your cheese to the burgers at this point. Remove your burgers from the grill when they reach the desired temperature.
Step 6: Assemble & Serve
If desired, you can butter the inside of your buns, and place them on the grill to toast. Allow them to toast for a matter of minutes before removing, then assemble your burger. Add your desired toppings, and sauces. Serve right away and enjoy.
Nutrition Information
We have estimated that the above recipe contains approximately four servings. It is estimated to contain about 414 calories. One serving is also estimated to contain 20.6 g total fat, 83 mg cholesterol, 567 mg sodium, 26.4g total carbohydrates, and 29.1 g of protein.
How Long to Smoke Burgers
The amount of time it takes to smoke your burgers will vary depending upon the kind of smoker you are using, how thick your burgers are, the outside temperature at the time, and what the desired internal temperature is for your burgers. The amount of time it takes to smoke your burgers at 225°F can be as little as 25 minutes, or as long as 90 minutes.
The best way to determine the length of time to smoke your burgers is to first allow plenty of time for them to fully cook, and then check on them often to make sure they do not become overly done.
How To Know if a Hamburger Is Done All the Way Through
The best way to determine if your hamburger is done all the way through is first to smoke it low and slow. This allows for your burger to smoke, and cook all the way through without burning on the outside.
Second, you can use an instant-read thermometer to determine the internal temperature of your burgers. To do this, you’ll want to insert the instant-read thermometer into the center of your burger. It’s a good idea to insert it in more than one place to make sure you get a similar reading throughout the inside of your burger.
Burger Temperature Chart
Rare: 120°-125°F
Medium Rare: 130°-135°F
Medium: 140°-145°F
Medium Well: 150°-155°F
Well Done: 160°F
Safe Burger Temperature
According to the USDA, the safe burger temp should be when your hamburger reaches an internal temp of 160°F. When burgers reach an internal temperature of 160°F, it is determined that this level of heat will destroy any harmful bacteria that may be present.
Best Burger Toppings
There literally are all kinds of different burger toppings you can choose from when you’re making burgers. Below we have listed a few ideas to get you thinking, but there are many, many others you can choose from. Simply use your imagination and create your favorite burger with amazing toppings!
Lettice
Spinach
Spring greens
Tomato
Pickles
Onions
Cheese
Bacon
Peppers
Chiles
Fried egg
Pineapple
Coleslaw
Mushrooms
Avocados
Mac and cheese
French fried onions
Onion rings
Cheese curds
Fried pickles
Potato chips
French fries
Tater tots
Cottage cheese
Hummus
Goat cheese
Blue cheese
Ketchup
Mustard
Honey mustard
Chick-fil-a sauce
BBQ sauce
Mayonnaise
Storage
Room Temp. Smoked burgers should sit out for no more than 2 hours at room temperature. If your room temperature is 90°F or above, then your smoked burgers should be left out for no more than 1 hour.
Fridge. Smoked burgers may be refrigerated for four days if stored properly. Smoked burgers should be removed from the grill and refrigerated, no more than two hours after being removed from the grill. They may be transferred to an airtight container or sealed in a storage bag then placed in the fridge at 40°F or below and kept for no more than four days.
Freezer. Smoked burgers may also be frozen if desired and will last up to three months in the freezer. Before you freeze your burgers, make sure that they have not been at room temperature for more than two hours. Then transfer them to an airtight container, seal them in a plastic freezer bag, or wrap them securely in plastic wrap or freezer paper. Place them into the freezer after they are sealed tightly and freeze at 0°F or below for up to three months.
Tips For Smoking The Best Burgers
When making smoked burgers there are a few tips and tricks that will help you make amazing burgers. Please see the below for details.
Burgers on Pellet Grill Tips
Anytime you are smoking burgers on a pellet grill, the key is to cook your burgers low and slow. Typically, you will want to smoke your burgers between 180°F and 225°F until they reach your desired internal temperature.
Burger Seasoning
The great thing about smoked burgers is that you don’t have to do anything extraordinary as far as burger seasoning goes. You can simply use a bit of salt and pepper, garlic salt, garlic powder, or your favorite burger seasoning.
We recommend using Amazing Burger Seasoning from Stonemill, however, any kind of burger seasoning that you like will work well. Keep in mind that your seasoning does not need to be strong, as your burgers will naturally pick up a delightful smoky flavor.
Best Ground Beef for Smoked Burgers
When you’re making smoked burgers, the best ground beef to use is typically an 80/20 mixture. However, if you’re not able to find 80/20 ground beef, you can use a 70/30 combination if needed. We do not recommend using anything higher grade than 80/20, as you’ll want a bit of the fat content, that will help keep your ground beef nice and juicy.
Burger Seasoning vs Salt and Pepper
When it comes to smoked burgers and there is no need to use any kind of big fancy seasoning for your burgers. You can simply use salt and pepper to season your burgers if you wish.
However, if you do want to use seasoning, you can use one basic seasoning blend, or you can simply use a garlic salt mixture if you wish. Smoked burgers will pick up a lovely smoky flavor as they are smoked, which allows you to not need a ton of seasoning.
How to Glaze Smoked Hamburgers with Barbecue Sauce
Glazing smoked hamburgers with barbecue sauce is a delicious way to finish off your burgers. Doing this is quite simple, and you only need a few minutes to finish them off with barbecue sauce.
To glaze your hamburgers, smoke your burgers until they have reached the desired internal temperature, then turn your heat down.
Brush the top of your burgers with your desired barbecue sauce, and allow them to warm for a few minutes which will allow your barbeque sauce to become lovely on your burgers. Then remove your burgers from the burner, serve right away and enjoy.
How to Make Stuffed Smoked Burgers
You can also make stuffed smoked burgers on your pellet grill if you wish. To do this, you will want to prepare your stuffing ingredients and then form your patties. Fill your burgers with your desired stuffing, and then create your patties around the filling.
Smoke your patties as instructed in our recipe, and then, when you check the internal temperature, you can still check it in the center, but you’ll also want to check the temperature around the edges as well so that you pick up the beef temperature as well as your filling.
When it reaches your desired level of doneness, remove it from the smoker and serve.
Smoking Burgers FAQs
Are smoked hamburgers good?
YES! Smoked hamburgers are extremely good. Once you try smoked burgers, you may never go back!
Can I Smoke a Frozen Burger?
Yes, you can smoke a frozen burger patty, however, it will take longer to fully cook through and may result in your burger smoking unevenly. If possible, it’s best to thaw your burger before it’s smoked.
Can you cook on the smoke setting on a Traeger grill?
You can cook using the smoke setting on a Traeger grill, however, because the temperature is lower, it will take much longer for your food to cook.
Do You Flip Burgers When Smoking?
When smoking burgers, it is best to flip your burgers just once when they are close to done.
How Long Does It Take to Smoke Burgers at 225F?
The amount of time it takes to smoke burgers at 225°F may vary depending on a few different factors. However, your burgers are likely to take between 60 and 90 minutes to fully cook through.
How long does it take to smoke burgers at 325?
Although the amount of time it takes to smoke burgers at 325°F may vary depending on how thick your burgers are, and what internal temperature you want. It typically takes approximately 30 minutes to smoke burgers at 325°F.
How long does it take to smoke burgers?
How long it takes to smoke burgers will depend on how thick your burgers are, your desired internal temperature, how warm it is when you are smoking, and what temperature you are smoking your burgers at. On average, it may take between 30 minutes, to 90 minutes for your burgers to fully smoke.
What do I need to make Smoked Hamburgers?
To make smoked hamburgers you will need a smoker, ground beef, hamburger buns, and your desired toppings.
What Makes a Good Smoked Burger Recipe?
The key to a good smoked burger recipe is to smoke your burger low and slow. When you are smoking food in general, it’s a good idea to not be in a hurry, have plenty of time to allow your burger to fully soaked in that lovely smokiness which will give you the best, juiciest, finished burger.
What temp are burgers done?
For a well done burger, the internal temperature should reach 160°F. Other ranges of temperature for your burger can be between 130°, up to 160°F. The internal temperature depends on how you like your burgers done.
What Type of Wood Is Best for Smoking Burgers?
There are many different types of wood you can use to smoke hamburgers. To start off, you can try using walnut, cherry, or mesquite pellets for more of a BBQ flavor. Other kinds of wood work great as well, simply try experimenting and see which ones you like the best for your burger flavoring.
Can you cook burgers on a pellet grill?
Yes, smoking burgers on a pellet grill will give you a very delightful burger.
Which pellet grill is the best?
Determining which kind of pellet grill is best to smoke your burger on is a difficult choice. There are many good options available out there today. Below are a few good options that you can check out.
What to serve with Smoked Hamburgers
Now that you know how to smoke your burgers, determining what side to serve with your smoked hamburgers is key. There are many options available. Below are a few ideas for you to help you get started.
Side Dishes
Juicy Smoked Burgers
Making juicy smoked burgers has never been easier. The process of making your own smoked burgers is surprisingly easy, and it tastes amazing! This recipe is one that you need to try out for yourself, to taste just how good it is.
Best Smoked Hamburgers!!
The best smoked burgers only require a few basic ingredients, a smoker, and some time to create a delightful masterpiece. Once you try smoked burgers, there is no going back. Give this recipe a try today, and let us know what you think!
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📋 Recipe
Smoked Burgers
Equipment
- Smoker
- Burger Press
- Grill Spatula
- Instant read thermometer
Ingredients
- 1 pound 80/20 ground beef
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Amazing Burger seasoning optional
- 4 hamburger buns
Topping Ideas
- Lettuce
- Tomato
- Onion
- Pickles
- Mushrooms
- Condiments
Instructions
- Before you start actually smoking your burgers it is important to prepare everything first. Start by preheating your smoker to 225°F. You will also want to prepare any toppings and buns. Then it’s time to start on your patties.
- Before you put your hamburgers into the patties, add your hamburger to a small mixing bowl and add your Worcestershire sauce and any seasonings you desire. Mix it together, then you can begin forming your hamburgers into patties. Typically, 1 pound will nicely make for burgers that are approximately ¼ pound each. You can use a hamburger press, or you can pack them out by hand. Your goal is to get nice even burgers, they have a slight well in the center.
- We recommend seasoning your burgers before you form them into patties, or you can also add additional seasonings to the outside of your patios if desired. This especially applies if you are using frozen burger patties, or premade burger patties. Simply rub your desired seasonings into the outside of your patty.
- When your smoker has preheated, and your burger patties are made, carefully add your patties to your smoker and allow them to smoke. The amount of time it takes to smoke your burgers can vary, but it may take as little as 25 minutes, or as long as 90 minutes. Keep an eye on them and check the internal temperature using an instant-read thermometer.
- When your internal temperature is just shy of your desired temp for the level of doneness for your burgers, preheat a gas grill so that it is very hot, approximately 450°F, then move your burgers from the smoker to your gas grill and reverse sear each side.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of your burgers to be sure they are done to your liking. If desired, you can add your cheese to the burgers at this point. Remove your burgers from the grill when they reach your desired temperature.
- If desired, you can butter the inside of your buns, and place them on the grill to toast. Allow them to toast for a matter of minutes before removing, then assemble your burger. Add your desired toppings, and sauces. Serve right away and enjoy.
