Discover how Hillman Beer creates their award-winning burgers using local ingredients and professional techniques you can replicate at home. Learn about patty formation, perfect cooking temperatures, and signature flavor combinations from this beloved Asheville brewery.
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The Art of Burger Crafting: Hillman Beer’s Kitchen Secrets Revealed

The Art of Burger Crafting: Hillman Beer’s Kitchen Secrets Revealed

When you bite into a perfectly crafted burger at Hillman Beer, you’re experiencing the culmination of years of culinary dedication from a family-owned brewery that takes their food as seriously as their award-winning brews. Since opening their doors in April 2017, the Hillman siblings—Brad, Greig, and Brandi—have built more than just a brewery; they’ve created a food destination where craft beer and thoughtfully prepared comfort food come together.

At both their original Asheville location near Historic Biltmore Village and their Old Fort taproom, housed in a converted historic hosiery mill, the kitchens have perfected the humble burger into something truly special. Today, we’re pulling back the curtain to share how you can bring these professional techniques into your own kitchen.

Ready to elevate your burger game? Let’s dive into the secrets that make Hillman Beer’s burgers stand out in the competitive Asheville food scene.

Table of Contents

The Hillman Burger Philosophy

At Hillman Beer, the approach to burger-making begins with a simple premise: quality ingredients prepared with care will always yield superior results. This philosophy mirrors their brewing approach—no cutting corners, no chasing trends at the expense of quality.

“We believe a great burger should be straightforward but exceptional,” says the Hillman kitchen team. “It’s about honoring the ingredients and letting them shine through thoughtful preparation.”

This commitment to quality is why you won’t find dozens of over-the-top burger options on their menu. Instead, they focus on perfecting their signature burgers, using techniques that highlight the natural flavors of locally-sourced ingredients.

The Hillman approach emphasizes balance in every aspect—the ratio of meat to bun, the harmony between toppings and condiments, and the relationship between your burger and your beer. This attention to detail creates a dining experience that feels both comforting and elevated.

Their unpretentious attitude toward food mirrors their approach to beer—craft quality without the snobbery. It’s a refreshing take in today’s food scene, where substance often takes a backseat to Instagram-worthy presentation.

Selecting the Perfect Beef

The foundation of Hillman’s exceptional burgers starts long before the meat hits the grill—it begins with carefully sourced beef from Western North Carolina farms. This farm-to-table approach isn’t just a marketing slogan; it’s central to their commitment to quality and community.

Hillman exclusively uses grass-fed beef for their burgers, working directly with local farmers to ensure consistent quality. This choice impacts everything from flavor profile to environmental footprint.

What makes grass-fed beef special for burger crafting? First, there’s the flavor—a clean, slightly sweet taste with more complexity than conventionally raised beef. The meat also tends to have a more favorable fat composition, with higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids and a leaner overall profile.

For home cooks looking to replicate Hillman’s approach, the kitchen team recommends seeking out locally raised grass-fed beef with a fat content between 15-20%. This provides enough fat for flavor and juiciness while maintaining the clean taste that makes their burgers special.

When selecting ground beef, look for meat that’s been freshly ground and has a bright red color with small, evenly distributed white flecks of fat throughout. Avoid meat that looks gray or has large chunks of fat unevenly distributed.

If possible, develop a relationship with a local butcher who can grind meat to your specifications. Hillman prefers a coarse grind for their burgers, which creates more texture and helps the patties retain moisture during cooking.

The Art of Patty Formation

The way you handle ground beef when forming patties can make or break your burger experience. Hillman’s kitchen has refined this process to create patties that cook evenly and maintain the perfect texture.

The first rule might surprise you: keep handling to a minimum. Overworking the meat compresses it and creates a dense, tough texture. Hillman’s approach is gentle, forming patties with just enough pressure to hold them together.

At Hillman Beer, patties are formed by hand rather than with presses or molds. This allows for the light touch needed to maintain the optimal texture. The kitchen team starts with cold (but not frozen) meat, which is easier to shape and helps the fat remain properly distributed.

Size and thickness matter tremendously in how a burger cooks. Hillman forms patties that are slightly larger than the bun (approximately 5-6 ounces of meat) and about 3/4-inch thick. This accounts for shrinkage during cooking while maintaining a proper meat-to-bun ratio.

A technique that sets Hillman’s patties apart is the slight depression they create in the center of each patty with their thumb. This prevents the common problem of burgers puffing up in the middle during cooking, ensuring even thickness throughout.

For home cooks, Hillman’s team suggests dividing your meat into equal portions before shaping to ensure consistency. Work quickly with cold hands to prevent warming the fat in the meat, which can lead to a greasy patty that falls apart during cooking.

Finally, once formed, their patties rest in refrigeration before cooking. This firms up the fat and allows the meat to relax, resulting in patties that hold together better on the grill or griddle.

Seasoning Secrets Revealed

Hillman Beer’s approach to seasoning burgers reflects their overall philosophy: let quality ingredients speak for themselves. Their seasoning technique is deliberately simple but executed with precision timing for maximum impact.

Unlike many restaurants that mix seasonings into the meat, Hillman seasons only the exterior of their patties. This method preserves the natural flavor and texture of the grass-fed beef while creating a flavorful crust when cooked.

The kitchen uses a straightforward blend of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, applied generously just before cooking. The larger crystals of kosher salt create the perfect crust without making the burger overly salty.

“The timing of seasoning is crucial,” explains the kitchen staff. “Season too early, and salt draws moisture to the surface, preventing a good sear. Season too late, and the flavors don’t properly penetrate.”

Hillman’s perfect timing is just moments before the patty hits the cooking surface. Both sides are seasoned evenly, with slightly more on the first side to hit the grill or griddle.

For those looking to experiment beyond salt and pepper at home, the Hillman team suggests considering complementary herbs like fresh thyme or rosemary, applied sparingly. They sometimes incorporate these herbs into butter that’s added during the final moments of cooking for special burger features.

Another professional tip: consider the seasoning in your condiments and toppings when deciding how to season your patty. Hillman’s house-made condiments are carefully balanced to complement, not compete with, the beef’s natural flavor.

Mastering the Grill vs. Griddle Debate

In the ongoing debate between grill and griddle cooking methods, Hillman Beer has made a clear choice for their signature burgers. Their kitchen primarily uses a flat-top griddle, a decision made after extensive testing of both methods.

The griddle offers several advantages that align perfectly with Hillman’s burger philosophy. First, it provides consistent, even heat across the entire cooking surface. This ensures that each patty cooks uniformly, without the hot and cool spots common on many grills.

Second, the flat surface allows the patty to cook in its own rendered fat, creating a flavorful crust that locks in juices. This method also preserves more moisture than grilling, where fat often drips away through the grates.

“The sear you get on a properly heated griddle is unmatched,” says the kitchen team. “It creates that perfect crust that adds texture and concentrates flavor on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.”

The griddle’s solid surface also makes it easier to achieve the perfect smash technique that Hillman sometimes employs for certain burger styles. This technique involves pressing the patty firmly onto the hot surface during the first moments of cooking, creating maximum contact for an exceptional sear.

For home cooks without a griddle, Hillman recommends a well-seasoned cast iron pan as the next best option. It retains heat exceptionally well and provides a similar cooking environment to their professional kitchen.

If you’re committed to grilling, the Hillman team suggests using a higher fat content beef (around 20%) to compensate for the fat that will render out during cooking. They also recommend cooking over a medium-high heat zone rather than directly over flames to prevent flare-ups and ensure even cooking.

Temperature Perfection

Temperature control is perhaps the most precise aspect of Hillman Beer’s burger creation process. Their kitchen team approaches this with scientific exactitude, understanding that just a few degrees can make the difference between a juicy, flavorful burger and a disappointing dining experience.

Hillman’s griddle is maintained at a precise 375-400°F for burger cooking—hot enough to create an immediate sear that locks in juices, but not so hot that the exterior burns before the interior reaches the desired temperature.

For consistent results, they use digital thermometers to monitor both cooking surface and internal meat temperatures. A medium-rare burger at Hillman is pulled from the heat at precisely 130-135°F internal temperature, knowing it will rise another 5 degrees during resting.

“The rest period is non-negotiable,” insists the kitchen team. Their burgers rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking, allowing juices to redistribute throughout the patty rather than spilling out with the first bite.

This attention to temperature continues with the buns, which are toasted to a specific golden brown, and even extends to how toppings are applied—cold ingredients are brought to room temperature before assembly to prevent them from cooling the hot patty too quickly.

For home cooks, Hillman recommends investing in a good instant-read thermometer and learning the temperature ranges for different levels of doneness:

Rare: 120-125°F (finish cooking at 115-120°F and let rest)
Medium-rare: 130-135°F (finish cooking at 125-130°F and let rest)
Medium: 140-145°F (finish cooking at 135-140°F and let rest)
Medium-well: 150-155°F (finish cooking at 145-150°F and let rest)
Well-done: 160°F and above (finish cooking at 155°F+ and let rest)

Remember that food safety guidelines recommend ground beef reach at least 160°F to eliminate potential harmful bacteria, though many restaurants and home cooks prepare burgers to lower temperatures based on preference and quality of meat.

Bun Selection and Preparation

At Hillman Beer, the bun isn’t an afterthought—it’s a critical component that can make or break a burger experience. Their bun selection process involves as much consideration as their beer recipes, with careful attention to texture, flavor, and structural integrity.

The brewery works with local bakeries to source buns that meet their exacting standards. They prefer brioche-style buns for their signature burgers, valuing the slight sweetness and rich texture that complements their grass-fed beef patties.

“A great burger bun needs to be substantial enough to hold up to juices without falling apart, but not so dense that it overwhelms the burger,” explains the kitchen team. This balance is achieved through careful selection and proper preparation.

Hillman’s bun preparation is methodical. Each bun is split evenly and toasted to a specific golden-brown finish on the cut sides only. This creates a slight crunch that contrasts with the soft interior while providing a moisture barrier that prevents the bun from becoming soggy.

The toasting is done on the same griddle used for the patties, allowing the buns to pick up subtle flavors from the cooking surface. They’re toasted just moments before assembly to ensure they’re warm but not dried out.

For specialty burgers, Hillman occasionally uses different bun styles—pretzel buns for German-inspired creations or house-made potato rolls for their Old Fort location’s regional specialties.

Home cooks looking to replicate Hillman’s approach should seek out fresh, locally baked buns when possible. If using store-bought varieties, the kitchen team suggests warming them in a 350°F oven for about 3 minutes before toasting the cut sides in a hot pan with a light brush of butter or neutral oil.

Building the Perfect Burger Stack

Burger assembly at Hillman Beer is far more than just piling ingredients between bun halves—it’s an architectural process designed to maximize flavor distribution, textural contrast, and structural integrity.

The order of components in a Hillman burger follows a specific logic. After the toasted bottom bun, a small amount of sauce is applied as a flavor base. This is followed by fresh greens, which create a moisture barrier between the bun and juicy patty.

The patty comes next, followed immediately by cheese if ordered. Hillman allows the cheese to melt slightly over the hot patty before adding remaining toppings. This creates what they call the “flavor seal”—a layer that traps juices and heat.

“The placement of tomato is particularly important,” notes the kitchen team. “We place tomato slices above the cheese but below other toppings. This prevents their moisture from making the bottom bun soggy while ensuring their flavor integrates with the meat.”

Onions and pickles typically go near the top of the stack, just below the final sauce application and top bun. This placement allows their assertive flavors to hit the palate first with each bite.

For speciality burgers like their popular patty melt, the architecture changes to accommodate different cooking methods and ingredient interactions. Their patty melt features a precisely calibrated ratio of caramelized onions to Swiss cheese, with the patty nestled between slices of griddled sourdough.

Home cooks can adopt this methodical approach by thinking about each ingredient’s function in the burger. Consider moisture levels, texture contributions, and flavor profiles when deciding your stacking order. And don’t rush the assembly—Hillman’s kitchen takes the time to build each burger with purpose and precision.

Signature Toppings and Condiments

While Hillman Beer maintains a relatively simple approach to their burger patties, they express creativity and craftsmanship through their house-made toppings and condiments. These elements provide distinctive flavor profiles that complement rather than overwhelm the quality beef.

The brewery makes nearly all their condiments in-house, controlling quality and creating signature flavor combinations you won’t find elsewhere. Their base burger sauce begins with a house-made mayo that’s enhanced with a careful blend of pickles, capers, herbs, and spices.

For their caramelized onions—a staple on several of their burger offerings—Hillman takes no shortcuts. Onions are slowly cooked for over an hour until they develop deep, complex sweetness. This patient approach creates an ingredient that adds remarkable depth to their burgers.

Hillman’s pickling program extends beyond traditional cucumber pickles to include seasonal vegetables from local farms. These house-pickled items appear regularly as special burger toppings, providing bright acidity and crunch that balances the richness of the beef and cheese.

“We believe condiments should enhance, not mask, the flavor of our burgers,” explains the kitchen team. This philosophy guides their development process, with each sauce and topping designed to fulfill a specific role in the overall experience.

Their approach to cheese is equally thoughtful. Rather than processed American cheese, Hillman opts for high-quality whole-milk cheeses that melt beautifully while contributing distinct flavors. Their go-to options include sharp cheddar from local dairies, Swiss for their patty melt, and occasionally local blue cheese for specialty burgers.

For home cooks looking to elevate their burger game, Hillman suggests starting with one signature homemade condiment—perhaps a special mayo or quick-pickled vegetable—to add a personal touch to your burgers without overwhelming yourself with prep work.

From Brewery to Home Kitchen

The techniques and philosophy behind Hillman Beer’s burger crafting can transform your home cooking, even without professional equipment. The kitchen team has adapted their methods specifically for home cooks who want to recreate the Hillman experience.

Start with the right equipment: a heavy cast-iron skillet is your best friend for burger cooking at home. It provides the consistent heat and surface area needed for proper searing. A reliable meat thermometer is equally important for precise temperature control.

When selecting meat, visit local farmers markets or butcher shops when possible. If that’s not an option, choose the highest quality ground beef you can find, with 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for optimal flavor and juiciness.

Plan your burger experience as a complete meal by considering beer pairings. Hillman’s approach to pairing focuses on complementary flavors—their ESB (which won GABF Gold in 2019) pairs perfectly with their classic burger, the malt notes enhancing the beef’s natural sweetness.

For those wanting to replicate Hillman’s complete experience, consider these simplified versions of their techniques:

1. Handle meat minimally and form patties by gently pressing the edges together rather than compacting the center.
2. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper just before cooking—not before.
3. Cook patties in a very hot cast iron pan, flipping only once if possible.
4. Allow your burger to rest for at least 3 minutes before assembly.
5. Toast your buns in the same pan you cooked your burgers, using the rendered beef fat for extra flavor.

“The most important thing home cooks can learn from our kitchen is patience,” says the Hillman team. “Don’t rush the process—from forming patties to resting the cooked burger. Those quiet moments are where the magic happens.”

Finally, embrace the Hillman philosophy of gathering around good food and drink. Their taprooms are designed to foster community, with shared tables and an unpretentious atmosphere. Bring that spirit into your home by making burger night a time for connection and conversation, preferably with a good craft beer in hand.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of beef does Hillman Beer use for their burgers?

Hillman Beer uses locally-sourced, grass-fed beef for all their burgers. They work directly with farmers throughout Western North Carolina to ensure consistent quality and sustainable practices. The beef typically has a fat content between 15-20% for optimal flavor and juiciness.

How does Hillman cook their burgers – grill or griddle?

Hillman primarily uses a flat-top griddle maintained at 375-400°F to cook their burgers. This method creates an even sear that locks in juices while allowing the patty to cook in its own rendered fat for maximum flavor. For home cooks, they recommend a well-seasoned cast iron pan as the closest alternative to their professional setup.

What beer pairs best with a Hillman burger?

Hillman recommends their award-winning ESB (Extra Special Bitter) as the perfect companion to their classic burger. The beer’s balanced malt character and subtle hop bitterness complement the richness of the beef without overwhelming it. For specialty burgers with stronger flavors, they might suggest their IPA or even their Dingaudamnit Dunkelweisen for more complex flavor pairings.

Can I get Hillman’s burger recipes to make at home?

While Hillman doesn’t publish their exact recipes, they’re happy to share techniques and general approaches with passionate home cooks. This article contains many of their professional methods adapted for home kitchens. For more specific guidance, they recommend visiting either their Asheville or Old Fort locations and chatting with their friendly kitchen staff who are always willing to discuss their craft.

What Our Customers Say

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

“I had a burger with a kale salad, and it was really good. The salad was especially great — truly healthy and just the way I like it. My husband had the turkey Reuben with chips and loved it. The beers were cold and very good. Everyone was happy, welcoming, and super friendly. A great place to support while visiting the area.”

— Cecilia Davis

“Loves the service and the beer. The wings and burger were quite good as well! I’m a bit picky about my burger buns and these were top notch. I feel like the burger could have been a little thicker or the bun a little smaller but all in all it was a pretty great flavor mixture.”

— Julie Stevens

“Burger was awesome, turkey Ruben had have carved turkey!! A little light on the dressing but good overall. IPA was delish and the ginger beer was also very good.”

— stealthPizzaMaker

“Great menu here for food, this place got super packed for trivia! We sat down for dinner around 6 and ordered the pork rinds which were exceptional. Light dust of old bay was perfect. The seltzer and light beers were perfect for our crowd. We got the falafel wrap and roasted turkey wrap. Both good, but we all felt the sauces needed to be better distributed throughout the wraps because they felt a little dry. The fries were amazing.”

— Erin Rose Raduazo

“Hillman Beer on Sweeten Creek Road in Asheville is one of our favorite places to stop in whenever we’re visiting Western North Carolina. The atmosphere is casual and inviting (and dog friendly!), the staff are very friendly, the beer selection is great, and the food is fantastic. Our most recent visit was on a Wednesday. Hubby enjoyed the Wednesday Burger Special (burger, choice of side, choice of beer) and I had the Rice Bowl with grilled chicken. As usual, everything was great.”

— India Watson

Ready to Craft Your Perfect Burger?

The art of burger crafting as practiced at Hillman Beer represents the perfect intersection of simplicity and craftsmanship. By focusing on quality ingredients, thoughtful techniques, and attention to detail, they’ve created burger experiences that keep customers coming back to both their Asheville and Old Fort locations.

Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just beginning your culinary journey, the methods shared by Hillman’s kitchen team can elevate your burger game. Remember their core principles: respect your ingredients, pay attention to temperature, be patient with the process, and focus on balance in every aspect.

As Brad, Greig, and Brandi Hillman have demonstrated since opening their doors in 2017, creating exceptional food doesn’t require pretension or complexity—just a genuine commitment to quality and community. This philosophy shines through in every burger they serve, alongside their award-winning craft beers.

Ready to experience Hillman Beer’s burgers firsthand? Visit their Asheville taproom at 25 Sweeten Creek Road near Historic Biltmore Village, or head to their Old Fort location at 78 Catawba Avenue. Both locations are open Sunday through Tuesday from 11am to 9pm, and Wednesday through Saturday from 11am to 10pm, with kitchens closing at 9pm daily.

And remember—good food, like good beer, is best enjoyed in good company. Whether you’re recreating Hillman’s techniques at home or visiting one of their taprooms, take the time to savor the experience and the connections it fosters.

Cheers to crafting the perfect burger!