🍳 Pan-frying or griddle
Cook Burgers in Beef Tallow
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.
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Temperature
400°F
⏱️
Cook Time
3-4 minutes per side
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Tallow Amount
1-2 tablespoons
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Method
pan-frying or griddle
What You'll Need
✓
cast iron skillet or flat griddle
✓
spatula Step-by-Step Instructions
1
Form ground beef into balls (don't overwork)
2
Heat cast iron or griddle over high heat
3
Add tallow and let it get ripping hot
4
Place meat ball in pan
5
Smash immediately with spatula (for smash burgers) or leave loose (for thick patties)
6
Season top with salt and pepper
7
Don't touch for 3-4 minutes
8
Flip once, add cheese if desired
9
Cook another 2-3 minutes
10
Rest briefly and serve
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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
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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?
Learn all about this versatile cooking fat and how to render your own at home.