Grilling burgers right before guests arrive - how do I keep them 'fresh', moist, etc.?

Question

I'm having a barbeque at my home and need to grill ~50 burgers before guests arrive. I want the burgers to be hot, moist, etc. ~1-2 hours later when people are eating them. Any thoughts on how to keep the burgers tasting good? FYI - There will be too many little kids running around and no good place to grill once guests start arriving so pre-cooking is my only alternative.

Answer 1

use some type of liquid in the mix before grilling ( worchester, dales or even some wine) Grill until almost done, then place in large metal pan in a single layer & cover with foil. Keep in the oven covered ( if you don't cover them, they will dry out ) on low or warm until ready to serve.

Answer 2

You are missing the point of having a barbecue! "Fresh off the grill" is the only way to go.!!!

Prepare your grill. Have patties at the ready. Have fruit drinks to keep the kids occupied. Some folks may like rare burgers, others medium, others well done, but no one will enjoy a 2 hour old burger.

I used to do a barbecue for 140 families when I was in the Navy and you have no idea how many kids.

My point is having a Barbecue means "HOT off the grill"............. not sitting around 1-2 hours.

PS: make sure the beer is on ice!

Answer 3

I am not sure. Depends if they are homemade or shop brought processed burgers (the latter will be less moist).

Keeping them hot is the problem - drying out, food hygiene etc.

Have you considered not BBQ at all. Just cook them under the grill in the oven 10 minutes prior to eating (in two batches)

Answer 4

Mixing in finely chopped onions is the trick to juicy burgers, and don't overmix. When cooked, stack them in a pan covered with foil. You will have to put cheese on last, but let the cheese be at room temp.

Answer 5

Don't overcook them; place in a casserole pan, covered with foil...they will be fine.