This smash burger recipe is all about tasty, juicy beef that’s crispy on the outside and soft inside. It’s so easy to make and perfect for any meal!
I love how simple it is to throw these burgers together. Just some ground beef, a hot skillet, and a good press. Dinner is done in no time, and they are always a hit! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend strikes the right balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use an 85/15 blend, but it might be less juicy.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its strong flavor, but you can replace it with American cheese for a classic melt or any cheese you prefer, like pepper jack for a kick.
Special Sauce: This sauce is easily adaptable! If you don’t have mayonnaise, Greek yogurt can work well for a tangy twist. Feel free to tweak the spices based on your taste; a dash of sriracha would add an exciting heat!
Burger Buns: I prefer brioche buns for their slight sweetness and soft texture. Whole wheat or gluten-free buns are great alternatives if you’re looking for a healthier or gluten-free option.
How Do You Smash the Patties Without Making a Mess?
Smashing the patties is key for that crispy, caramelized crust. Here’s how to do it right:
- Ensure the skillet is really hot; this helps create that crust quickly.
- After placing the beef balls on the skillet, use a sturdy spatula and press down firmly but gently to avoid tearing the meat.
- Don’t flip too soon! Wait until you see a nice brown crust forming, usually about 3-4 minutes.
- Season them after smashing to get the salt and pepper right on the patty for maximum flavor.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have perfectly smashed burgers that are full of flavor! Enjoy your cooking process!
How to Make The Best Smash Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Burger:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 burger buns
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 tomato, sliced
- Dill pickles, sliced
- ½ cup special sauce (see below for the recipe)
- French fries, for serving
For The Special Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious smash burger recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend 10 minutes preparing the special sauce and prepping your ingredients, followed by about 20 minutes to cook and assemble the burgers. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Special Sauce:
In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until everything is blended smoothly. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if you’d like! Set this tasty sauce aside for later.
2. Prepare the Beef:
Take the ground beef and gently divide it into 4 equal portions, each weighing about 4 ounces. Shape these portions into balls, but be careful not to overwork the meat, as we want to keep it juicy!
3. Heat the Griddle:
Place your cast-iron skillet or griddle on the stove and turn the heat to medium-high. Allow it to heat up until it’s quite hot, which will help create that perfect crust on your burgers.
4. Smash the Patties:
Once the skillet is ready, place the beef balls onto it. Using a spatula, smash each ball down flat to form a thin patty. Season the tops generously with salt and pepper. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes until a nice crust forms on the bottom.
5. Flip and Add Cheese:
Carefully flip the patties using the spatula. Now, place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each patty. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully.
6. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are finishing, grab another pan or use the grill to toast your burger buns until they are golden brown. This adds extra flavor and crunch!
7. Assemble the Burgers:
It’s time to put everything together! Spread a tablespoon of your special sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a cheesy burger patty on top, then layer on the shredded lettuce, tomato slices, and dill pickles. If you like a little more sauce, go ahead and add a bit more before adding the top half of the bun.
8. Serve:
Grab your delicious smash burgers and serve them hot with a side of crispy French fries. Enjoy your homemade meal!
Happy cooking! Enjoy your delicious smash burger!
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef for This Recipe?
While you can use leaner ground beef, I recommend sticking to an 80/20 blend for the best flavor and juiciness. If you must use a leaner option, consider adding a bit of olive oil to the meat to help retain moisture while cooking.
How Can I Store Leftover Smash Burgers?
To store leftovers, wrap the assembled burgers tightly in aluminum foil or place in an airtight container. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or on the skillet for the best texture, avoiding the microwave if possible as it can make the buns soggy.
Can I Make the Special Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the special sauce up to 3 days in advance. Just store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator. The flavors may even improve as they meld together!
What Can I Substitute for Cheddar Cheese?
If you’d like to switch up the cheese, feel free to use American, Swiss, or pepper jack cheese depending on your taste preference! Just make sure to melt it on the patties right after flipping them for the best results.
