Grilling vs. griddle: which makes the best burger?

grill vs griddle cover

The great burger debate

Let’s face it, folks – we all love a good burger. But have you ever wondered whether grilling or using a griddle makes the better patty? I’ve been on a mission to settle this debate once and for all, and let me tell you, it’s been a delicious journey.

The case for grilling

patties on the grill

There’s something magical about firing up the grill on a sunny afternoon. The smell of charcoal, the sizzle of meat hitting the grates – it’s practically an American tradition. Here’s why grilling might just take the crown:

Flavor explosion

When you grill a burger, those beautiful char marks aren’t just for show. They’re flavor city, baby! The high heat causes the Maillard reaction, creating complex flavors and that irresistible smoky taste.

Health benefits

Grilling allows excess fat to drip away from the meat, potentially making for a leaner burger. Plus, you’re out in the fresh air – that’s gotta count for something, right?

The great outdoors

barbecue outside

Let’s be honest, part of the appeal is the experience. Grilling is social, it’s fun, and it gets you outside. Can your kitchen griddle do that? I think not.

The griddle revolution

Now, don’t count out the griddle just yet. This flat-top wonder has been gaining popularity, and for good reason:

Even cooking

patties on the griddle

A griddle provides consistent heat across its entire surface, ensuring your burger cooks evenly from edge to edge. No more hockey puck edges and rare centers!

Moisture retention

Unlike grill grates that let juices escape, a griddle keeps your burger sitting pretty in its own delicious juices. This can lead to a moister, more flavorful patty.

Versatility

Want to toast your buns and cook your onions on the same surface as your burger? A griddle’s got you covered. It’s like a one-stop shop for all your burger needs.

The taste test

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I couldn’t just theorize about this – I had to put it to the test. So, I fired up both my grill and my griddle and got to work. Here’s what I found:

Grilled burger recipe

This post has many recipes to test and try.

  1. Mix 80/20 ground beef with a pinch of salt and pepper
  2. Form into 1/3 pound patties, making a slight depression in the center
  3. Grill over high heat for 4-5 minutes per side
  4. Add cheese in the last minute if desired
  5. Rest for a few minutes before serving

The result? A burger with a crispy, charred exterior and a juicy interior. The smoky flavor was undeniable, and those grill marks were Instagram-worthy.

Griddle burger recipe

Here you’ll find a video with a tutorial to griddle burger.

  1. Heat your griddle to medium-high
  2. Season your patties with salt and pepper
  3. Cook for about 3 minutes per side
  4. Add cheese and cover with a dome for the last minute
  5. Toast your buns on the griddle while the burgers rest

The griddle burger was evenly cooked with a beautiful crust. It retained more moisture and had a “meatier” flavor, if that makes sense.

The verdict

verdict

So, which is better? Well, it’s kind of like asking whether you prefer The Beatles or The Rolling Stones – there’s no wrong answer, just personal preference.

If you’re all about that smoky flavor and don’t mind a bit of char, fire up that grill. But if you’re after a consistently cooked, juicy patty, the griddle might be your new best friend.

My two cents

Personally, I’m a grill guy in the summer and a griddle fan in the winter. There’s something about standing over a hot grill with a cold drink that just screams “summer” to me. But when it’s too cold to venture outside, my griddle makes a mean burger that rivals any I’ve had at a diner.

The bottom line

At the end of the day, the best burger is the one you enjoy most. Whether that’s a chargrilled masterpiece or a griddle-smashed sensation, the important thing is that it makes your taste buds happy.

So fire up your preferred cooking surface, grab your favorite toppings, and get ready to sink your teeth into burger bliss. And hey, why not try both methods? In the name of science, of course. Happy cooking, folks!