The Best Smash Burger Recipe

Smash burgers are loved for their crispy edges and juicy centers. This recipe gives you an easy way to whip up delicious burgers at home. The combination of simple ingredients and quick steps makes it perfect for both beginners and seasoned grillers. You can customize it to suit your taste, making it a great choice for family dinners or weekend get-togethers.

How to Make Smash Burgers

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz (340g) ground beef (80/20)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1-2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon mustard
  • Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
  • Brioche Buns
  • 2 slices cheddar cheese
  • Pickles
  • Lettuce
  • Onion, thinly sliced
  • Tomato slices

Directions:

  1. Divide the ground meat into 3 oz (85g) portions. Roll each portion into balls. Place each ball between 2 pieces of parchment paper.

  2. Use the flat side of a mallet to flatten them into thin rounds.

  3. Make the sauce: Combine all of the ingredients together and mix well. Refrigerate until ready to use.

  4. Cook the Patties: Heat a cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.

  5. Season one side of the meat with salt and black pepper. Place the seasoned side down onto the hot pan and season the other side with salt and pepper.

  6. Cook for 1-2 minutes and flip. Cook for 30 seconds to a minute and top one of the burger patties with cheese. Place the other patty on top and remove from the pan.

  7. Assemble the Burgers: Toast the buns on the grill for about 30 seconds and transfer to a plate.

  8. Place a spoonful of sauce on the bottom bun and then top with lettuce, tomato, and onion. Add the double patties on top. Place pickles over the patties, add more sauce, and then place the top bun. Serve.

delicious homemade smash burger with toppings and grilled to perfection

How to Serve Smash Burgers

Serve these smash burgers hot off the skillet with a side of fries or a simple salad. You can also add extra toppings like cheese, bacon, or avocado if you like. Enjoy with family and friends for a fun meal!

How to Store Smash Burgers

You can store leftover smash burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet on medium heat until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but this may make them a bit soggy.

Tips to Make Smash Burgers

  • Use the best quality ground beef you can find for better flavor.
  • Don’t skip the seasoning; it really enhances the taste.
  • For extra crispy edges, press down firmly when smashing.
  • Experiment with different sauces and toppings to find your favorite combination.

Variation

Try using turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. You can also add different spices to the patty mixture for added flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce the day before and store it in the refrigerator.

2. What is the best way to cook smash burgers?
A cast iron skillet or griddle works great, but you can also cook them on a grill if you prefer.

3. How do I know when the burgers are done?
Cook the patties until they are browned on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for beef.

delicious homemade smash burger with toppings and grilled to perfection

The Best Smash Burger Recipe

Experience the ultimate flavor and texture with this quick and easy smash burger recipe. Featuring perfectly seared patties, melted cheese, and toasted buns, it's a gourmet take on a classic fast-food favorite.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 burgers
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb Ground beef (80/20 chuck)
  • 4 American or cheddar cheese slices
  • 4 Burger buns
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper freshly ground, to taste
For Serving (Optional)
  • 2 tbsp Butter for toasting buns
  • Onion thinly sliced
  • Pickles sliced
  • Lettuce leaves
  • Tomato sliced
  • Favorite burger sauce

Equipment

  • Heavy-bottomed skillet or griddle
  • Sturdy Spatula
  • Burger press or another heavy spatula

Method
 

Prepare Patties and Heat Skillet
  1. Divide the ground beef into four equal portions, forming loose balls without compacting them. Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet or griddle over high heat until it begins to smoke lightly.
Smash and Cook Burgers
  1. Place a beef ball onto the hot skillet, then immediately use a sturdy spatula or burger press to firmly smash it down into a thin patty, about 1/4-inch thick. Season generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Cook for 2-3 minutes until a deep brown crust forms on the bottom. Carefully scrape under the patty with the spatula to release it, then flip.
  3. Immediately place a slice of cheese on top of the cooked side of each patty. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the burger is cooked through.
Toast Buns and Assemble
  1. While the burgers are cooking, lightly butter the cut sides of the burger buns and toast them on the skillet or in a separate pan until golden brown.
  2. Assemble the burgers on the toasted buns, adding any desired toppings such as onion, pickles, lettuce, tomato, or your favorite burger sauce. Serve immediately.

Notes

For the best crust, ensure your skillet is screaming hot before adding the beef. Don't overcrowd the pan, and use a high-fat ground beef (80/20 chuck) for maximum flavor and juiciness. Toasting the buns is crucial for texture and preventing sogginess.

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating