How to Make Hamburgers for Labor Day

Nothing says Labor Day like a big barbecue. America's number one summer pastime for decades, grilling has become a way for families to celebrate the end of the summer. Whether you are cooking hamburgers on your own backyard or taking your grill to the beach, you'll need to know how to cook the perfect hamburger to make the whole experience a complete success.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Wire grill brush
• Long Handled Tongs or Spatula (to turn the food)
• Insulated Mittens
• Metal or bamboo skewers
• Spray Bottle (to extinguish flare ups)
• Grill
• Food Thermometer (an instant-read thermometer is the best choice)

Cook the Perfect Hamburger

1. Choose your cooking method. Direct heat cooking (placing the burger directly over the coals) is the preferred method for thin hamburgers, which don't require a long cooking time. Indirect heat cooking is best for meat that requires a longer cooking time.

2. Preheat the grill for at least 15 minutes before you place the meat on.

3. Spray the grate with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the hamburgers from sticking.

4. Turn only once, halfway through cooking time. Use a thermometer rather than the naked eye to determine when the meat is ready.

5. Take the hamburgers out of the fridge for a few minutes before you start cooking. Meat at room temperature cooks better.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure your city allows homeowners to light a charcoal grill in the backyard. Some areas don't allow it during the summer, but make an exception during Labor Day weekend or for the fall season. If it doesn't, you may want to look for a gas grill.
• Use marinades and rubs to enhance the flavor of the hamburgers. Give the meat at least 1 hour to soak up the flavor (overnight is better). If the rub contains sugar, do not apply to the meat until halfway through cooking time to prevent the sugar from burning.
• Think of your guests when cooking the Labor Day BBQ. Grill some veggies for the vegetarian in the group and use sugar-free sauce for those who can't or don't want to have the added sugar in their diet.
• If you're using a gas grill, don't attempt to clean it right after finishing the cooking. Instead, lower the lid and allow the moisture to act as a self-cleaner. This will make it easier later on to scrub the grease away.
• Don't leave grills unattended, especially around pets and children. Flare ups, fires and high temperature are a great risk.
• If you're using marinades or sauces, watch out for splatters and flare ups.