How do I cook burgers in the oven without drying them out?

Oven-baked burgers that stay juicy

Oven-cooking is convenient for cooking many burgers at once and can yield juicy results if done right. Use a two-step approach: start at high heat to develop a crust, then lower temperature to finish cooking gently. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place patties on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to allow air circulation and fat drainage.

Bake for 8–10 minutes, then flip and continue for another 5–8 minutes depending on thickness and desired doneness. Alternatively, sear patties in a hot skillet for 1–2 minutes per side, then transfer to the oven at 375°F (190°C) to finish—this gives the best combination of crust and even cooking.

Tips to avoid dryness

• Use 80/20 ground beef for moisture retention.
• Don’t overbake; check internal temp with a thermometer—160°F (71°C) for ground beef.
• Consider adding a small pat of butter or a light brush of oil on top to encourage browning and juiciness.

Finishing touches

• Add cheese in the last minute and return to oven briefly to melt.
• Let burgers rest 2–3 minutes before serving to lock in juices.

With proper temperature control and a short resting period, oven-baked burgers can be evenly cooked, flavorful, and moist.