To cook hamburgers on the stove, the cooking time depends on the desired doneness and thickness of the patties, but typical guidelines are as follows:

• Medium-rare (red in the middle): About 6 minutes total, or 3 minutes per side, at an internal temperature of 130-135°F (57°C)

• Medium (pink in the middle): About 7 to 8 minutes total, or 3-4 minutes per side, at 145°F (63°C)

• Medium-well (a slight pink center): Around 9 minutes total, or 4-5 minutes per side, at 150-155°F (68°C)

• Well-done (no pink): Approximately 10 minutes total, or 5 minutes per side, at 160°F (71°C)

Additional tips for stovetop cooking:

• Use a preheated skillet over medium to medium-high heat, preferably cast iron or nonstick, with a little oil to prevent sticking

• Form patties about ½ inch thick with a slight indent in the center to help them cook evenly and prevent puffing up

• Flip the burgers once when the edges start browning and the burger is about two-thirds cooked through

• Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure proper internal temperature for safety and preferred doneness

• Adding cheese can be done by placing a slice on the patty after flipping, then covering the pan to melt the cheese for 1-2 minutes

In summary, expect to cook stovetop hamburgers for about 6 to 10 minutes total depending on thickness and doneness, flipping once halfway through the cooking time