A burger usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes to cook in the oven at 400°F (200°C). The exact time depends on how thick your patties are and how well you like them cooked. Thinner patties cook faster, while thicker ones need a few more minutes.
To start, line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and lightly grease it so the burgers don’t stick. Place your patties on the sheet and put them in the oven. Flip them halfway through the cooking time so they brown evenly on both sides.
If you like your burgers juicy but safe to eat, aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can check this with a meat thermometer. Once done, let the burgers rest for a few minutes before adding your favorite toppings and buns.
Cooking burgers in the oven is easy, mess-free, and great when you don’t want to stand over a hot pan. Just set the timer, let the oven do its job, and you’ll have perfectly cooked burgers ready to enjoy.
How Long to Cook Burgers in the Oven (General Guide)
If you’ve ever wondered how long it really takes to cook burgers in the oven, here’s the short answer: about 15 to 25 minutes. The exact time depends on how thick your patties are and what kind of meat you’re using. Thicker burgers need more time, while thinner ones cook faster. I like to bake mine at 400°F because it gives them a nice brown color on the outside while keeping them juicy inside. If your oven runs hot, though, 375°F works just fine too.
When I first started baking burgers, I used to just guess when they were done. Big mistake. Sometimes they came out dry, and other times they were still pink in the middle. What helped me most was getting a simple meat thermometer. You don’t have to spend much on one, but it makes all the difference. For beef burgers, aim for an internal temperature of about 160°F. If you’re cooking turkey or chicken burgers, go for 165°F. That’s the safe zone according to the USDA, and it keeps you from over or undercooking your food.
One thing I’ve learned is not to rush it. When you pull your burgers out of the oven, let them rest for about five minutes before you bite in. It sounds like a small thing, but it really helps keep the juices inside the patty instead of running all over your plate. I used to skip that step because I was too hungry to wait, but after trying it once, I noticed how much juicier the burgers tasted.
If you’re using lean meat, like 90/10 beef or turkey, it’s easy for the burgers to dry out. To fix that, I like to mix in a little bit of olive oil or a tablespoon of breadcrumbs with milk before shaping the patties. It keeps the texture soft and moist, even after baking. On the other hand, if you’re using ground chuck or something with a higher fat content, you won’t need to add anything extra. The fat keeps everything tender.
You can also adjust your oven temperature to change the texture of the burger. At 350°F, the burgers cook slower and stay juicy but won’t brown much on top. At 400°F, they cook faster and get that nice crispy edge, kind of like grilling. If you want to go even quicker, you can broil them for the last few minutes. Just keep an eye on them because broiling can burn the tops fast if you look away.
Here’s a quick guide I go by: for medium burgers, about 18 minutes at 400°F. For well-done, closer to 22 minutes. If you make thick patties, add a few more minutes. And if you’re making smaller sliders, they’ll be ready in around 12 to 15 minutes.
The trick to baking burgers right is finding your oven’s sweet spot. Every oven is a little different. Mine tends to run a bit hot, so I set it slightly lower than recipes suggest. After a few tries, you’ll know what works for you. Once you figure it out, baking burgers becomes so easy. You can pop them in, clean up the counter, and they’ll be ready right when you are.
Cooking burgers in the oven might not give you that smoky grill flavor, but it’s super convenient. You don’t have to stand over a pan or worry about flare-ups from dripping fat. Plus, you can bake a whole batch at once, which is great for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. So the next time you’re craving burgers, don’t be afraid to use your oven. Set it around 400°F, give it 15 to 25 minutes depending on thickness, and check the temperature to be sure. That’s all you need for perfectly cooked burgers every single time.
Oven Temperature and Cooking Time Chart
When you’re baking burgers in the oven, the temperature you choose makes a big difference in how they turn out. Too low, and you’ll end up waiting forever for them to cook. Too high, and they might dry out before the middle is done. I’ve played around with a lot of oven temps over the years, and now I’ve got a good feel for what works best. The sweet spot, at least in my kitchen, is usually between 375°F and 400°F.
At 350°F, burgers cook slowly and stay moist, but they won’t brown as much on top. If you like soft, juicy patties with less crust, this temperature is a good choice. It usually takes about 25 minutes for medium-well burgers at that heat.
At 375°F, you get a balance between juiciness and browning. This is my go-to temp when I’m cooking several burgers at once. They take about 20 to 22 minutes to reach that perfect, slightly crisp edge.
At 400°F, burgers cook faster, usually around 15 to 18 minutes, depending on how thick they are. I like this temperature when I’m in a hurry or want a nice sear without using a skillet. You get that golden-brown top and a firmer texture. But here’s the trick don’t forget to check them around the 15-minute mark. Burgers can go from juicy to dry pretty fast at this heat if you don’t keep an eye on them.
And then there’s the broil setting. This one’s like turning your oven into a mini grill. The heat comes from the top, so it browns and crisps up the surface in no time. I use the broiler at the very end of cooking for about 1 to 2 minutes to melt cheese or give the tops that grilled look.
Here’s a simple guide:
- 350°F = 25 minutes
- 375°F = 20–22 minutes
- 400°F = 15–18 minutes
- Broil = 1–2 minutes
The cooking time also depends on the type of meat. Beef burgers can handle higher heat better because of the fat content, while turkey or chicken burgers need a little lower temperature to stay juicy. Plant-based or veggie patties usually cook faster since they don’t have to reach a specific safe meat temperature.
The safe temps are:
- Beef burgers: 160°F internal temperature
- Turkey or chicken burgers: 165°F internal temperature
- Veggie or plant-based burgers: around 160°F
A food thermometer is your best friend here. I used to guess by pressing on the patty, but that’s not always reliable. Some burgers can look done outside but still be raw inside. Now I just stick the thermometer into the thickest part, and I know exactly when they’re ready.
So here’s the bottom line: if you like soft and juicy burgers, go with 350°F. If you want a balance of tenderness and browning, 375°F is your best bet. And if you’re craving that crisp, slightly charred edge, 400°F (with a quick broil at the end) will hit the spot.
How to Bake Burgers in the Oven Step-by-Step
Start by preheating your oven. I usually go with 400°F because it gives me a nice balance between juicy and browned. While the oven heats up, get your baking tray ready. Line it with foil for easy cleanup, or use a wire rack on top of a tray if you want the fat to drip off and the patties to stay crisp underneath.
Next, shape the patties. Try to make them all about the same size and thickness so they cook at the same rate. I usually aim for about three-quarters of an inch thick. A trick I learned is to press a small dent in the middle of each patty with your thumb. It helps the burger cook evenly without puffing up in the center.
Now, season them. Salt and pepper always do the job, but I like adding a pinch of garlic powder and smoked paprika for a little extra flavor. If you’re using turkey or chicken, adding a bit of olive oil or mayo into the meat mix helps keep things moist.
Once your oven is ready and the patties are seasoned, place them on your tray or rack. Make sure there’s a bit of space between each one. Pop the tray into the middle rack of your oven and set a timer. For regular-sized beef burgers, go for 15 minutes to start.
About halfway through, flip the burgers. This helps them cook evenly on both sides. While they’re baking, resist the urge to press them with a spatula. That just squeezes out the juices you want to keep inside.
After about 15 to 18 minutes, check the internal temperature. Beef burgers should hit around 160°F, and poultry burgers should reach 165°F. If they’re not quite there, give them another 3 to 5 minutes.
When the burgers are almost done, pull the tray out, place a slice of cheese on each patty, and pop it back in for one or two minutes to melt perfectly.
When the burgers are fully cooked, take them out and let them rest for about five minutes. That short rest time makes a big difference it lets the juices redistribute so the burgers stay moist and flavorful.
While the burgers rest, toast your buns. Brush the insides lightly with butter and slide them into the oven for just a minute or two. Then assemble your burgers however you like lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles, mayo, or whatever else you’re craving.
Bake at 400°F for 15 to 20 minutes, flip halfway, check the temp, melt the cheese, and rest the burgers before serving. It’s that simple. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll wonder why you didn’t start baking burgers sooner.
Cooking Times for Different Burger Types
Not all burgers are created equal, and that’s especially true when it comes to cooking times. Beef cooks one way, turkey another, and veggie patties have their own rhythm.
- Beef burgers: 400°F for 15–18 minutes (medium), 20 minutes (well done)
- Turkey burgers: 375°F for 22–25 minutes (165°F internal)
- Chicken burgers: 375°F for 22–25 minutes (165°F internal)
- Veggie or plant-based: 400°F for 12–15 minutes
- Frozen burgers: add 5–7 minutes to regular times
Beef is the most forgiving because of its fat content, while turkey and chicken dry out faster. Always check the internal temperature to make sure they’re done. Veggie burgers usually finish fastest, especially if they’re pre-made or frozen.
How to Tell If Your Burgers Are Done
The most reliable way is to use a meat thermometer. Stick it into the thickest part of the patty. For beef, 160°F means it’s done; for turkey or chicken, aim for 165°F.
If you don’t have a thermometer, look at the juices. If they run clear, your burger’s done. If they’re pink or red, it needs more time. You can also press lightly on the top it should feel firm but springy.
Color alone can fool you, so always check with a thermometer when possible. And don’t forget to rest the burgers after baking for five minutes before cutting into them. That’s the secret to keeping all that flavor locked inside.
Tips for Juicy, Flavorful Oven-Baked Burgers
Start with good meat 80/20 ground beef is ideal. Don’t overmix it, or your burgers will get tough. Make a small dent in the middle of each patty to help it cook evenly.
Add moisture boosters like olive oil, grated onion, or a spoonful of breadcrumbs soaked in milk. Season right before baking so the salt doesn’t pull moisture out early.
Bake on a rack so the fat can drip off and the burgers don’t sit in grease. Never press the patties while they’re cooking. Once they’re done, let them rest for five minutes before serving.
Finish under the broiler for one or two minutes if you want a crisp top. And if you’re cooking turkey or chicken burgers, mix in chopped veggies like zucchini or spinach to keep them from drying out.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Baking Burgers
The biggest mistakes are easy to fix once you know them:
- Overbaking. Check a few minutes early.
- Skipping the thermometer.
- Using meat that’s too lean.
- Crowding the baking tray.
- Forgetting to flip halfway through.
- Skipping the resting step.
- Pressing down while baking.
- Salting too early.
- Not adjusting time for frozen patties.
Avoid these, and your burgers will come out juicy and perfect every time.
How to Customize Burgers Baked in the Oven
Customizing oven-baked burgers is where the fun begins. Add your favorite toppings, sauces, and cheeses to make them your own.
Cheese should go on during the last minute or two of baking. Toast the buns lightly in the oven with butter or olive oil for a crisp texture.
Try new flavor combos:
- Classic American: cheddar, ketchup, mustard, pickles.
- BBQ: smoked gouda, barbecue sauce, crispy onions.
- Spicy Southwest: pepper jack, chipotle mayo, avocado.
- Mediterranean: feta, cucumbers, tzatziki.
- Hawaiian: grilled pineapple, Swiss, teriyaki glaze.
You can even stuff burgers with cheese or sautéed mushrooms for an extra burst of flavor. Or brush patties with barbecue sauce before baking for a caramelized glaze.
Oven vs. Grill vs. Stovetop: Which Makes the Best Burger?
Each cooking method has its pros and cons.
Grill: unbeatable smoky flavor, but harder to control. Great for outdoors, not so great in bad weather.
Stovetop: fast and flavorful but messy, with lots of grease splatter.
Oven: clean, simple, and consistent. Perfect for big batches and easy cleanup.
I use the grill when I want that classic summer taste, the stovetop for a quick single meal, and the oven when I want stress-free, juicy burgers every time.
If you miss the smoky flavor, add a little smoked paprika or a drop of liquid smoke to your mix before baking. It’s a great shortcut that gives you that grill-like flavor without the hassle.
Conclusion
Baking burgers in the oven might not seem exciting at first, but it’s one of the most reliable ways to make them. It’s clean, simple, and gives you consistent results every time.
All you really need is good meat, the right temperature, and a few smart habits: don’t overmix, don’t overbake, and let them rest before eating. You can cook beef, turkey, chicken, or veggie patties all in one batch and customize them however you like.
So the next time you’re craving a burger but don’t want the mess or stress, try baking them in the oven. Set it to 400°F, bake for 15 to 25 minutes depending on the meat, and you’ll end up with juicy, flavorful burgers that everyone will love. Simple, easy, and absolutely delicious.