The perfect burger isn't complicated. But it does start with a few decisions. And making the right ones before you ever fire up the grill is what separates a good burger from a great one.

At New Morning Market, we've been helping people do exactly that for over 50 years. This guide walks you through everything from choosing the right patty to getting the cook just right, with tips from Alex, our Meat and Seafood Manager.

Watch: How to Make the Perfect Burger

It Starts with the Right Meat

Not all ground beef is the same. At New Morning Market, we carry two premium brands: Pineland Farms and Thousand Hills where cattle are born, humanely raised and harvested right here in the U.S. Their regenerative farming practices reflect a commitment to responsible stewardship, animal welfare, and exceptional quality – and you can taste the difference.

What's the Best Fat Ratio for a Burger Patty?

Fat ratio is one of the big factors in how a burger tastes and holds together on the grill.

If you want a rich, juicy burger with bold flavor, go for an 80/20 or even 70/30 blend. More fat means more flavor and a burger that stays moist even if you cook it a little past your target.

If you're looking for something leaner, our grass-fed option comes in at around 85/15. It's a cleaner-tasting burger, still great on the grill, just a bit less indulgent.

The Brisket Short Rib Patty

This one deserves its own mention. Our Pineland Farms Brisket Short Rib patty is a combination of two naturally fatty, deeply flavorful cuts. The result is a richer, more complex burger than you'll find anywhere else. If you're cooking for a crowd or just want to step it up, this is the patty to reach for.

Make It Your Own Thickness

Prefer a thicker or thinner patty? You can purchase ground beef and shape it yourself. And if you need help, we can patty press them for you right in the store.

How to Season a Burger

Keep it simple. Alex's method: salt, pepper, and garlic on one side only. He likes to season the side facing up when it hits the grill. Season the top, not the heat side. When you flip, add your cheese immediately so it melts properly.

Cheddar is Alex’s favorite choice. But of course, we all love the classic American cheeseburger. Both melt well and won't fight the flavor of the meat.

What really matters is what you like. Want brie on your burger? Go for it.

Looking to try something new? Stop by our Cheese Department and chat with our experts. With an incredible selection of cheeses from local favorites to world-renowned classics, you just might discover a new favorite.

Seasonings Worth Trying

If you want to go beyond the basics, we carry a wide array of Kinder's Seasonings. For Alex, three of them stand out for burgers specifically.

Smoky Sea Salt adds depth without overwhelming the meat. The Blend is a customer favorite and works on just about everything. And if you haven't tried Cowboy Butter, now's the time. This one has a Dijon mustard base that adds a layer of flavor most people don't think to put on a burger. It sounds unconventional. It isn't.

How Long to Cook a Burger

Grill temperature matters, so use these times as a baseline and adjust based on your setup. Higher heat means less time per side.

For medium rare, cook three minutes per side and add your cheese right after the flip. For medium, aim for four to five minutes per side. For well done, five to six minutes per side.

Everything Else You Need

We've got you covered beyond the patty. New Morning Market carries hardwood lump charcoal, all of your favorite condiments, and an unmatched selection of fresh, local and organic produce. Everything you need to build your burger, start to finish.

The last step is the easy one. Enjoy it.