If you’re craving a fast and flavorful meal, a skillet homemade burger is the ideal option. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also requires just one pan. As a result, there’s minimal cleanup. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or simply short on time, this burger will satisfy your hunger with ease.
Why Make a Burger in a Skillet?
Cooking burgers on the stovetop gives you better control over the final result. Furthermore, you don’t need any special equipment. Because everything happens in one pan, it’s perfect for small kitchens or anyone living solo.
Benefits of a Skillet Homemade Burger:
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✅ Ready in only 15 minutes
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✅ Uses just one skillet
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✅ No grill required
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✅ Fully customizable
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✅ Perfect for a quick solo meal
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Ingredients You’ll Need
Even though this recipe is simple, the flavor is rich and satisfying. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples or easy to find.
For the Burger Patty:
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200g ground beef (80% lean)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
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1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
For Assembly:
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1 hamburger bun
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1 slice of cheese
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Tomato slices
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Lettuce or arugula
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Red onion slices
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Ketchup, mustard, or mayo
Step-by-Step: How to Make a Skillet Homemade Burger
Even beginners can make this recipe without stress. Each step is straightforward, and cleanup is fast.
Step 1 – Mix and Shape the Patty
First, combine the ground beef with seasonings and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl. Then, form a patty slightly wider than the bun. This ensures it remains juicy and evenly cooked.
Step 2 – Heat Your Skillet
Next, place a nonstick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. In addition, add a small amount of oil to avoid sticking and improve browning.
Step 3 – Cook the Patty
Now cook the patty for 3–4 minutes on each side. As the second side cooks, top it with cheese. After that, cover with a lid to help the cheese melt thoroughly.
Step 4 – Toast the Bun
While the patty rests, toast both sides of the bun in the same skillet. This simple step adds texture and warmth, enhancing the final result.
Step 5 – Build Your Burger
Finally, assemble the burger: start with lettuce, then add tomato, onion, the patty, and your favorite sauces. Top it with the second bun half, and you’re ready to enjoy!
Tips to Improve Your Skillet Burger
Although this recipe is simple, you can easily enhance it. Below are some ideas to upgrade your burger without adding time.
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Do not overmix the meat to keep it tender.
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Use a lid to melt cheese evenly and quickly.
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Try turkey or veggie patties for variety.
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Add avocado or pickles for extra flavor and texture.
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Serve with chips or salad for a complete and balanced meal.
Moreover, you can double the patty and refrigerate the second one for the next day.
Quick Cooking, Delicious Results
Unlike grilled burgers, a skillet homemade burger cooks fast and tastes great. Since it’s made in one pan, you’ll spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your meal.
In fact, many solo cooks rely on recipes like this to save time while still eating well. It’s also ideal for meal prep or a last-minute dinner. Best of all, you don’t have to sacrifice quality for speed.
Save this recipe for busy weeknights—it’s fast, satisfying, and better than takeout!