This smash burger is all about juicy beef, perfectly crispy edges, and a soft bun that holds it all together. It’s quick to make and oh-so-delicious!
Honestly, the best part? Smooshing the patties down makes them cook fast and gives that tasty crust we all crave. I can’t resist adding extra cheese on top! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using an 80/20 blend gives you a juicy burger thanks to the fat. If you’re looking for a leaner option, a 90/10 blend will work, but the burger might be less flavorful. For a different taste, try ground turkey or chicken, just be cautious with cooking times.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is a classic and melts beautifully. If you’re not a fan, feel free to swap it out for American cheese, which is super melty, or Swiss for a nuttier flavor. Vegan cheese can also work well if you prefer a dairy-free option.
Buns: Brioche buns are soft and slightly sweet, perfect for holding everything together. If unavailable, sesame seed buns are a great alternative. Gluten-free buns can also be used to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Special Sauce: This sauce is the star of the show! To switch things up, add some sriracha for heat or switch the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter version. You could also use a store-bought burger sauce if you’re short on time.
How Do You Get the Perfect Smash on the Burgers?
Smashing the patties down is key to creating a great burger. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Shape the beef into loose balls. Avoid overworking the meat to keep it tender.
- Once the skillet is hot, place a ball in the pan and immediately press down firmly with a spatula. You want to flatten it to about 1/2 inch thick.
- Season the meat right after smashing. This enhances the flavor and allows for a nice crust to form.
Keep the heat up to achieve a caramelized crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. And don’t forget to let it cook without lifting it for the first couple of minutes! This helps the burger form that delicious crust.
The Best Smash Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burger:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
- 4 hamburger buns (preferably brioche or sesame seed)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- 8 dill pickle slices
- 1/2 cup special sauce (recipe below)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)
For the Special Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes of cook time. Just 25 minutes in total for delicious, homemade smash burgers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Special Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. Set the special sauce aside while you work on the burgers.
2. Preheat the Griddle or Pan:
Place a cast iron skillet or griddle on the stove over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil to the pan, letting it heat up while you shape the patties.
3. Shape the Patties:
Take the ground beef and divide it into four equal portions, each about 4 ounces. Gently roll each portion into a loose ball without packing it too tightly.
4. Cook the Burgers:
Once your skillet is hot, place the beef balls in the pan. Immediately use a spatula to press down each ball into a flat patty, about 1/2 inch thick. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little salt and pepper on top!
5. Add Cheese:
Allow the burgers to cook for about 2 minutes until the edges are nicely browned. Then, place a slice of cheese on each patty. Let them cook for another minute, or until the cheese is all melty and gooey.
6. Toast the Buns:
While your burgers are finishing up, cut the buns in half and place them face down in the skillet to toast. Keep an eye on them until they’re golden brown.
7. Assemble the Smash Burgers:
Now it’s time to build your burgers! On the bottom half of each toasted bun, spread a generous amount of the special sauce. Place a cheesy burger patty on top, and then add your fresh shredded lettuce, tomato slices, and pickle slices. Finally, top it off with the other half of the bun.
8. Serve:
Your smash burgers are ready to eat! Serve them right away alongside crispy fries or your favorite side dish. Enjoy the juicy flavors and delicious toppings!
Now, dig in and enjoy the perfect smash burger experience!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef! Just keep in mind that these meats are leaner, so you may want to add a bit of oil or seasoning to enhance the flavor. Cook the patties for a bit longer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
What Can I Use Instead of Cheddar Cheese?
If you want to switch up the cheese, feel free to use American, Swiss, or pepper jack for a spicy kick! Just be sure to slice it thinly so it melts nicely over the burger. Each cheese will add a different flavor profile to your smash burger.
Can I Prepare the Special Sauce in Advance?
Absolutely! You can make the special sauce a day ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld together, making it even more delicious when you’re ready to assemble your burgers!
How Should I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in a skillet or the microwave, but be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out. Reassemble with fresh toppings when ready to enjoy!
