Because it is finely ground, this type of beef is particularly vulnerable to bacteria. It should always be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).

Pan-fry

Heat skillet over medium heat. Use ground beef formed into patties or meatballs, or crumble to cook for casseroles. Cook ground beef on the heated skillet, turning to cook all outer surfaces. Ground beef patties take 10 to 12 minutes and are done when the interior is brown but still juicy.

Broil

Preheat the broiler and form ground beef into 1/2-inch (1.3cm) patties. Place on a broiler pan in the oven, 3 to 4 inches (7.6–10.2cm) from the heat source. Broil, turning once, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Grill

Form into 1/2-inch (1.3cm) patties and place on the grill directly over the heat source. Cook, turning once, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C), approximately 11 to 13 minutes.

Bake

To bake, combine ground beef with onions, chopped vegetables, herbs, spices, salt, and pepper. Form into a loaf and place in an ovenproof dish. Cook at 350°F (180°C) for 1 1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Microwave

Form ground beef into patties, place on a greased baking dish, and microwave on high 4 to 10 minutes, depending on quantity. Halfway through cooking, turn patties and drain drippings. To microwave bulk ground beef, place beef in a bowl, then cook on High, 9 minutes per pound (454g). Stir several times during cooking.