Determining the ideal internal temperature to cook burgers is crucial for ensuring both safety and optimal taste. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends cooking ground beef to a minimum internal temperature of 160F (71C) to eliminate harmful bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella.
Cooking burgers to the proper temperature not only enhances food safety but also impacts the burger’s texture and flavor. Undercooked burgers may harbor harmful bacteria, while overcooked burgers can become dry and tough. Achieving the ideal internal temperature ensures a juicy, flavorful, and safe burger.