At what stage should burger edges turn to indicate cooking progress?

The cooking progress of burgers is typically indicated by the color change at the edges. When the edges of a burger patty turn gray or grey, it signifies that the meat has reached a certain internal temperature and is undergoing the cooking process. This change in color indicates that the beef is cooking through and is essential for determining when to flip the burger or continue cooking.

Gray edges show that the meat has been exposed to heat and the proteins are beginning to denature, which is a key indicator that the patty is moving from raw toward a fully cooked state. Observing this color change helps ensure that the burgers are cooked evenly and remain juicy. Recognizing this stage is vital for maintaining food safety and achieving the desired doneness.

Other colors such as brown, black, or tan can indicate either overcooking, undercooking, or may not accurately signify the meat’s progress towards safety and palatability.