The cooking time for a half-pound burger can vary depending on the cooking method and desired level of doneness. Here are some general guidelines for cooking a half-pound burger:
Grilling: On a preheated grill over medium-high heat, a half-pound burger will take about 4 to 5 minutes per side for medium doneness. This would result in a total cooking time of approximately 8 to 10 minutes. For a well-done burger, you may need to cook it for an additional 1 to 2 minutes per side.
Pan-Frying: In a hot skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat, a half-pound burger will take around 4 to 6 minutes per side for medium doneness. This gives a total cooking time of 8 to 12 minutes. Adjust the time according to your preference for doneness.
Oven-Baking: To oven-bake a half-pound burger, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the burger on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Cook for about 15 to 20 minutes, flipping once halfway through the cooking time. This method may take slightly longer than grilling or pan-frying but can be useful when you want to cook multiple burgers at once.
Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the burger to ensure it's safe to eat. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends cooking ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safety reasons.
Remember that these cooking times are approximate and can vary based on the thickness of the burger, the starting temperature of the meat, and the heat intensity of your cooking equipment. It's always best to monitor the cooking process closely and use a meat thermometer to achieve your preferred level of doneness.