Grilling Burger Set: What Comes in a Burger Press Kit
By Nordic Ware | Published: 2026-10-19
Category: How-to Guides
A burger press kit typically includes a press, trays, and forming tools. Learn what to look for and how to choose the right set for even, homemade patties every time.
Quick answer
A typical burger press kit includes a sturdy grill press for flattening patties, trays for forming and serving, and often a burger forming tool to shape uniform patties. The Nordic Ware Grilling Burger Set is a complete example that covers these essentials.
What each piece in a burger making set does
The grill press is the core tool: it applies even pressure to flatten ground meat into a patty, helping it cook uniformly and develop a good sear. Trays serve dual duty—they hold the raw patty while you form it and later act as a serving platter. Some kits also include a burger forming tool (a ring or mold) to ensure consistent size and thickness, which is key for even cooking across multiple patties.
A complete burger making set saves you from buying separate tools that may not work well together. The press and trays are designed to fit each other, so the patty stays centered and doesn't slide off during pressing.
Trade-offs to consider before buying a grilling burger set
Material matters: cast aluminum presses heat up quickly and hold heat well, but they are heavier. Stainless steel versions are lighter but may not sear as aggressively. The Nordic Ware set uses durable construction built to withstand high heat on the grill, which is a practical choice for most home cooks.
Size and storage: a press with a wide surface (about 4-5 inches) works for standard burger buns, but if you like oversized patties, check the diameter. Trays add bulk, so measure your grill space and storage area before committing.
If you only cook one or two burgers at a time, a simple press alone may be enough. A full kit makes sense when you regularly cook for a crowd or want consistent results batch after batch.
How to choose a burger press kit: decision rules
- Check the press material: Look for cast aluminum or heavy-gauge stainless steel. Cast aluminum heats fast and sears well but is heavier; stainless is lighter but may need more preheat time. The Nordic Ware set uses durable construction rated for high grill heat, so it works for both gas and charcoal grills. Choose cast aluminum if you prioritize sear marks; choose stainless if weight is a concern.
- Verify tray compatibility: Make sure the trays are large enough to hold the patties you want to make. Standard burger press trays are about 5-6 inches wide. If you plan to form jumbo patties, check the tray diameter. The included trays in a kit should also be oven-safe if you want to finish burgers indoors. Measure your grill grates and storage space before buying a set with trays.
- Look for a forming ring or mold: A burger forming tool (often a ring) helps you portion consistent patties every time. Without it, you rely on hand-shaping, which can lead to uneven thickness. Some kits include this; others sell it separately. If consistency matters, choose a set that includes a forming ring. A forming ring is essential for batch cooking; skip it if you only make one or two patties at a time.
Product facts
- Grilling Burger Set | Grill Press & Trays: Includes a grill press and trays for forming and serving burgers. You get both the pressing tool and the serving surface in one box, so you don't need to buy extra trays separately.
Grilling Burger Set | Grill Press & Trays - Grilling Burger Set | Grill Press & Trays: Durable construction built to withstand high heat on the grill. The set won't warp or degrade under direct grill heat, making it reliable for repeated outdoor use.
- Grilling Burger Set | Grill Press & Trays: Helps burgers cook evenly. Even thickness means no more dry edges and raw centers—your patties will cook at the same rate.
Is a burger press kit right for you?
Best for
- Home cooks who grill burgers regularly and want consistent patty thickness
- Anyone who cooks for a crowd and needs to form multiple burgers quickly
Not for
- Grillers who prefer hand-shaped, irregular patties for a rustic look
- Occasional burger makers who already own a grill press and don't need extra trays
