Gently mix the ground beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a bowl. Avoid overmixing.
Divide the beef into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty about 3/4 inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent them from puffing up.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F). Clean the grill grates.
Place the patties on the hot grill. For medium-rare, grill for about 3-4 minutes per side. For medium, grill for 4-5 minutes per side. For well-done, grill for 6-7 minutes per side.
Flip the burgers only once.
If adding cheese, place it on the patties during the last minute of cooking.
Lightly toast the burger buns on the grill for about 30 seconds if desired.
Assemble your burgers with your favorite toppings and serve immediately.
Notes
For a gas grill, preheat on high, then reduce to medium-high. For a charcoal grill, arrange coals for direct heat.
Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness: 130-135°F for medium-rare, 140-145°F for medium, 155-160°F for medium-well, and 165°F for well-done.
Do not press down on the burgers while they are cooking, as this squeezes out the juices.