The Real Burger King

Bobby Flay knows burgers. He’s studied them, eats them as his go-to meal after a long work day and has even written a cookbook solely dedicated to Burgers, Fries and Shakes.

The Food Network star is one many lean on when it comes to advice on how to properly prepare a juicy burger. But Flay isn’t just about beef; he also does a stellar veggie burger with barbecued mushrooms, chickpeas and quinoa.

Photo courtesy of Caesars Entertainment

Bobby’s Veggie Burger is served at the three Bobby’s Burgers locations at Caesars Palace, Harrah’s Las Vegas and Paris Las Vegas, where you can also order a Brunch Burger (egg and bacon), Nacho Burger (queso, tomato salsa and pickled jalapenos) or Flay’s favorite—a classic Crunchburger topped with potato chips, a sandwich he told one interviewer would be his choice for his last meal.

Flay’s burgers start with dressing the patty with fresh toppings, flavorful relishes and sauces that pack a punch. So how do you get that Flay flavor at home? Follow these tips.

1. PREPARE YOUR PATTIES
Although admitting it’s not diet-friendly, Flay prefers an 80-percent lean, 20-percent fat ratio because it guarantees a juicy, tasty burger.

2. A THUMBPRINT PREVENTS PLUMP
Using your thumb, make a depression in the center of the patty to prevent the burger from “plumping up like a football,” Flay says.

3. SEASON ONLY WITH SALT AND PEPPER
Keep it simple. That’s the rule.

4. COOK WITH CAST IRON
Because it retains heat well and cooks evenly, Flay favors using cast iron to cook a burger indoors. Just add a couple teaspoons of canola oil.

5. FLIP ONCE
Have patience. Flay says to let the pan do its job and cook the burger (without pressing down on it or flipping) for about three minutes to develop a crust. Once it’s crispy, flip and cook to desired temperature.

6. KEY TO A MELTY CHEESE
When using cast iron, add some water to the pan, cover and watch the cheese miraculously melt to perfection.