Barbecue: Hamburgers, Hot Dogs, and Brats for the 4th of July

Rees Walther
Jul 1
2 min read

The 4th of July is a time for fireworks, celebrations, and, of course, classic American barbecue. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a backyard cookout or heading to a park for a family gathering, nothing says Independence Day like a feast of hamburgers, hot dogs, and brats. These three staples are simple to prepare but can be elevated with the right techniques and toppings. Let’s dive into how to make the best versions of these classic grill favorites.

Hamburgers: The All-American Classic

A well-made burger is juicy, flavorful, and perfectly grilled. Here’s how to make yours stand out:

Choosing the Right Meat

Use 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of juiciness and flavor.
If you want to mix things up, try blends with brisket or short rib for extra depth.
Season simply with salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder.

Grilling Tips

Form patties about ¾-inch thick with a slight dimple in the center to prevent bulging.
Grill over medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes per side for medium doneness.
Avoid pressing down on the burgers with a spatula—this squeezes out the juices.
Butter and toast the buns lightly on the grill for extra texture. For extra depth of flavor use tallow instead of butter.

Top It Off

Classic: Lettuce, tomato, onion, and American cheese.
Gourmet: Blue cheese, caramelized onions, and arugula.
Spicy: Pepper jack, jalapeños, and chipotle mayo.

Hot Dogs: Simple Yet Delicious

Hot dogs are a 4th of July staple because they’re quick to cook and easy to customize.

Grilling Tips

Use all-beef hot dogs for the best flavor and texture.
Score the dogs lightly before grilling to help them cook evenly.
Grill over medium heat, turning frequently until you get a nice char.
Lightly butter and toast the buns for extra flavor.

Must-Try Toppings

Classic: Mustard, ketchup, relish, and onions.
Chicago-style: Yellow mustard, diced onions, sweet pickle relish, tomato slices, a dill pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt.
Chili Cheese: Beef chili, shredded cheese, and diced onions.

Bratwurst: A Juicy Alternative

Brats bring a rich, savory bite to any cookout. Here’s how to make them perfectly:

Pre-Cooking Tips

Simmer brats in beer and onions before grilling to enhance their juiciness and flavor.
Use a mix of light beer, onions, and butter for an easy beer bath.

Grilling Tips

Grill brats over medium heat, turning frequently for an even cook.
Don’t poke holes in the casing—it lets all the juices escape.
Cook until they reach 160°F internally, about 15 minutes.

Perfect Pairings

Traditional: Sauerkraut, spicy mustard, and grilled onions.
Wisconsin-style: Beer cheese sauce and pretzel buns.
Tex-Mex: Pico de gallo and chipotle mayo.

Final Thoughts

No matter how you like your hamburgers, hot dogs, or brats, the 4th of July is all about gathering with family and friends to enjoy great food and good company. Fire up the grill, try out some new toppings, and celebrate Independence Day with a meal that’s as classic as the holiday itself.

Happy 4th of July, and happy grilling!