The perfect burger is a feat of architecture. It’s built in the same way the Empire State Building or the Golden Gate Bridge was, piece by piece and with great thought and technical consideration.

Perfect-Burger Secret Tip Make a divot in the middle of the burger with your thumb to help it keep its shape while cooking. These patties can be made ahead and chilled in the fridge.

For juicy burgers, get ground chuck with a fat content of at least 18%. Lean and extra-lean meats make tough, dry burgers. (This tip is true for turkey burgers or lamb burgers, too—look for grinds with around 18% fat.) It's all about finding the bes