In order to brown, rather than steam, the pan needs to be hot. Adding oil is optional but recommended for better browning. Add the meat to the pan and break it into large pieces. Use a wooden spoon, fish spatula, or other sturdy spatula to break the meat up into large pieces in the pan.
Can you brown meat without oil?
If you’re using a nonstick pan you don’t have to use oil (unless you’re using extra-lean ground beef). Cast iron and stainless steel are the best choices for getting that beautiful, brown sear. Once the pan is hot, add the meat, and use a spatula to break it up into pieces.
Do you put oil in pan before ground beef?
If the ground beef is very lean then adding a small amount of cooking oil to the pan is necessary. Otherwise, ultra-lean ground beef will burn and stick to the pan before the center of your burger is even done.
