Summertime and grilling go hand in hand. Whether you are barbecuing your family dinner or hosting a party, nothing beats a perfectly cooked cheeseburger. From choosing propane over charcoal to knowing when to flip the patty, here are five tips for grilling the ultimate cheeseburger this season.

How to Grill the Perfect Cheeseburger

1. Choose Propane

Propane is the way to go when it comes to grilling. It’s an efficient fuel source that will cut your cook time in half, resulting in a juicy burger. Although charcoal is a classic choice, it takes much longer, which risks overcooking and drying out the meat.

2. Select the Meat

Shape your patties to about three-quarters of an inch thick along the edges and half an inch in the center. This unevenness adjusts as the meat cooks. Also, choose burgers with 15% fat; the moisture prevents the meat from drying out.

3. Watch the Temperature

The right temperature is critical. Begin by warming up the grill to about 450 degrees Fahrenheit. This level provides just enough heat to make the meat sizzle when it comes in contact with the grill. If the heat is too high, the patty will char too quickly on the outside while the inside stays too pink.

4. Don’t Press the Patty

You’ve probably seen outdoor cooks pressing their patties with a spatula. Avoid this practice; this releases the much-needed juices that will make your cheeseburger delicious. Leave the meat on the grill for five to six minutes, flip once, and cook the underside for about four minutes.

5. Add the Cheese

After the burger is thoroughly cooked, add your cheese, so the surface heat perfectly melts it. You can use any cheese you like, but each will have its own melting time. American, cheddar, and Swiss will melt easily, even if you place the cooked burgers over indirect heat on the grill. Thick slices and varieties like feta do not melt as quickly and will need to stay over the hottest part of the grill until gooey.

When you need a reliable propane gas delivery for your summer grilling, trust Brotherton Propane. Located in West Plains, MO, for more than 43 years, their services are available to customers 24 hours a day. The gas company prides itself in top client care and expertise in a plethora of heating needs, from fireplaces and water heaters to space heaters. To find out more, call (417) 256-5067. Visit them online for a list of their propane service options.