Cook Burgers in Beef Tallow
Pan-frying or griddleBeef tallow amplifies the beefy flavor of a burger while creating a beautiful crust. It's the secret of smash burger restaurants—the tallow-kissed crust is everything.
What You'll Need
- cast iron skillet or flat griddle
- spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Form ground beef into balls (don't overwork)
- Heat cast iron or griddle over high heat
- Add tallow and let it get ripping hot
- Place meat ball in pan
- Smash immediately with spatula (for smash burgers) or leave loose (for thick patties)
- Season top with salt and pepper
- Don't touch for 3-4 minutes
- Flip once, add cheese if desired
- Cook another 2-3 minutes
- Rest briefly and serve
Pro Tips
- 80/20 ground beef has ideal fat content
- Cold meat smashes better
- Only flip once for best crust
- Toast buns in the residual tallow
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overworking the meat
- Pan not hot enough
- Pressing during cooking (for non-smash)
- Overcooking
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature should I cook burgers in beef tallow?
For pan-frying or griddle burgers in beef tallow, heat your pan to 400°F. This temperature ensures proper browning without burning.
How long does it take to cook burgers in beef tallow?
Burgers typically takes 3-4 minutes per side when cooking in beef tallow using the pan-frying or griddle method.
Why is beef tallow good for cooking burgers?
Beef tallow amplifies the beefy flavor of a burger while creating a beautiful crust. It's the secret of smash burger restaurants—the tallow-kissed crust is everything.
New to cooking with beef tallow?
Read our guides on this versatile cooking fat and learn to render it at home.