What should hamburgers and steaks be covered with during cooking?

Hamburgers and steaks should be cooked uncovered to ensure that they achieve a proper sear and develop a desirable crust on the outside. Cooking them without a cover allows for moisture to escape, increasing the Maillard reaction, which enhances flavor and texture. This method promotes even cooking and prevents the meat from steaming, which can occur if it is covered. Additionally, an uncovered cooking method helps in monitoring the browning and doneness of the meat better.

Using aluminum foil, plastic wrap, or wax paper would hinder the cooking process by trapping moisture and steam, leading to a less appealing texture, which is not ideal for these types of meats that benefit from browning and caramelization.