Smash burgers are loved for their crispy edges and juicy centers. This recipe brings out the rich flavor of beef while creating a fun and easy meal. These burgers are quick to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a backyard barbecue. Plus, adding your favorite toppings makes them customizable for everyone’s taste.
how to make Smash Burgers
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ lb 80/20 Ground Beef
- 1 Large Yellow Onion (optional)
- ¼ cup Avocado Oil
- Salt and Pepper
- 4 Hamburger Buns
- 8 slices American Cheese (optional)
- ½ cup Mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard
- ¼ cup Barbecue Sauce
- 1 tsp Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1 tsp Soy Sauce
- 1 tsp Sriracha
Directions:
- Burger Sauce: In a bowl, mix the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and sriracha. Stir well and set aside.
- Prepare the Patties: Divide the ground beef into four equal portions. Don’t form them into perfect patties; keep them loose.
- Heat the Skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the avocado oil.
- Cook the Burgers: Place the loose beef portions in the skillet and flatten each one with a spatula to form a thin patty. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Add the Onion: If using, add slices of onion to the skillet as your burgers cook. They will caramelize and add great flavor.
- Flip and Cheese: Cook for about 3 minutes, then flip the patties. Top each patty with a slice of cheese and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Toast the Buns: While the burgers cook, toast the hamburger buns in another skillet or on a grill.
- Assemble: Spread the burger sauce on the bottom bun, add the patty, and then top with any additional toppings you like. Finish with the top bun.
how to serve Smash Burgers
Serve the smash burgers with your favorite sides like fries, chips, or a fresh salad. Add extra toppings such as lettuce, tomatoes, or pickles if desired. They are best enjoyed while still hot and juicy!
how to store Smash Burgers
If you have leftovers, store the cooked patties and buns separately. Place the patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Reheat on a skillet or in the microwave before serving again.
tips to make Smash Burgers
- Use high-quality ground beef with a good fat content (like 80/20) for the best flavor.
- Don’t overwork the meat when forming the patties; keeping them loose helps with the juiciness.
- Allow the skillet to get really hot; this is key for those crispy edges.
- Experiment with different toppings and sauces to find your perfect combination.
variation
Try adding bacon, avocado, or different cheeses to customize your smash burgers. You can also use turkey or veggie patties for a different twist!
FAQs
1. Can I make smash burgers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties and refrigerate them for up to a day before cooking.
2. Can I use a grill instead of a skillet?
Absolutely! Smash burgers can be cooked on the grill for a nice smoky flavor.
3. How can I make these burgers without cheese?
Just skip the cheese and load up on your favorite toppings instead. They will still be delicious!
Smash Burgers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Divide the ground beef into four equal, loose balls; do not press or form patties at this stage.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, relish, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika to make the smash sauce.
- Heat a cast iron skillet or griddle over high heat until it begins to smoke, then add a pat of butter to the hot surface.
- Place a beef ball on the hot skillet and immediately smash it flat with a sturdy spatula, pressing down firmly for 10-15 seconds to create a thin patty; season generously with salt and pepper.
- Cook for 90 seconds, then scrape under the patty to release it, flip, and immediately place a slice of American cheese on top.
- Continue cooking for another 60-90 seconds until the cheese is melted and the patty edges are crispy; remove and set aside, repeating with the remaining beef balls.
- While the burgers cook, lightly butter the hamburger buns and toast them on the same skillet until golden brown.
- Assemble the burgers by spreading smash sauce on the bottom bun, adding a patty with cheese, dill pickles, and sliced onion, then topping with the upper bun; serve immediately.