How to Brown Ground Beef

Step 1

Remove hamburger from the refrigerator 30 minutes prior to cooking to allow it to come to room temperature. Pat dry with paper towel if there is moisture on the surface from thawing.

Step 2

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 3

Once the skillet is hot, break the meat into large chunks and spread evenly across the bottom of the skillet to get maximum surface contact. Let cook undisturbed for four minutes.

Step 4

Check for browning with spatula by lifting the edge of a piece of ground beef. If browned, flip the beef over and cook for an additional 4 minutes. If not browned, continue cooking until browning appears.

Step 5

Once both sides are browned, crumble meat, ensuring it is cooked through, drain fat, and add seasoning.