How to Make Quick and Easy Hamburger Patties

How many of us have toiled over the task of making hamburger patties from scratch? Kneading, molding and crimping until our hands are exhausted.

Materials needed:

Round plastic bowl or container: An 8 oz Cool Whip container makes the perfect size patty, plus it has the flexibility to allow you to make that patty as big or thin as you want. If you do not have a plastic bowl or container and need to use a glass or ceramic bowl, or Pyrex dish, use the optional Plastic Wrap (see below).

Round plastic lid: (Optional) Find something that fits inside the bowl or container, as close to the sides as possible. Clear or transparent is best, as this allows you to see where there may be gaps in the meat when you form the patty. If you can't find a lid, you can just use plastic wrap or simply use your hands. The lid is simply an aid in pushing the meat down flat inside the container.

Plastic Wrap: (Optional) Plastic wrap can replace the need for a plastic lid to help smooth and flatten the meat. It can also be used inside the container to aid in lifting the formed patty out. You'll need to place plastic wrap inside the dish if you are using glass, ceramic or Pyrex.

Directions:

*If using plastic wrap, line the inside of the container with a piece of wrap large enough so that it hangs over the sides of the container.*

Take a handful of the hamburger and knead into a mushy ball. The more you knead the better it holds its shape.

Plop the ball of meat into the container and flatten with your lid, plastic wrap or hand. Push the edges all the way to the sides until the meat is completely flush all around. Smooth out the middle so the patty is fairly flat.

*If using plastic wrap inside, grab the corners of the wrap and gently pull the patty out. Peel the patty off the wrap. Use the same piece of wrap to re-line the container.*

Turn your plastic bowl or container upside down and gently whack the edge of it on your hand until the patty falls out into your hand.

Now you have the perfect patty and it only took a minute!