Wagyu burgers are obviously different from the standard ground beef hamburger in texture and flavor, but most importantly, they differ in the prep and cooking of the beef.

In general, Wagyu beef is usually meant to be cooked more on the rare side due to its different types of fat and fat-melting point. The fat melting point of Wagyu beef is actually lower than human body temperature at around 77 degrees Fahrenheit. This is because of the type of monounsaturated fatty acids in Wagyu. The high concentration of monounsaturated fats and Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids compared to other beef is what gives Wagyu its buttery texture and provides its dietary benefits.

Cooking Wagyu burgers might be an adjustment for a lot of burger grillers as it’s best to cook it medium-rare, resulting in faster cooking times. This, however, is what allows the tenderness and juiciness of the meat.

Although Wagyu burgers require less time on the grill, they do take up more time on prep. Unlike typical ground beef, which can go from the fridge or freezer to heat with no problem, Wagyu ground beef must be thawed 48 hours prior in the fridge and then defrosted to room temperature 30 minutes before cooking. This is, of course, to retain the best possible flavor Wagyu can offer. Regular beef can skip this wait without losing quality in the flavor, but the best Wagyu quality burger is still the best all-around.

There are a lot of popular new spins on the Wagyu burger, but most would argue that a little goes a long way with this especially flavorful beef. Many go light on the toppings and seasonings as to not mask any delicious, natural Wagyu flavors.

It’s even possible to cook a perfectly tasty Wagyu burger on a skillet if you’re short a grill. Although Wagyu is not traditionally eaten in burger form, it is a great new way to eat Wagyu and to eat burgers. In fact, since authentic, prime Wagyu should not be consumed in vast quantities, a Wagyu slider might actually be the most practical route.

Though it is different from the common hamburger, Wagyu burgers offer more juicy flavors and textures you cannot get from any typical Angus burger.