This smash burger recipe gives you juicy, flavorful patties that are crispy on the outside and tender inside. Topped with melty cheese and your favorite fixings, it’s a real treat!
Cooking these burgers is super fun! I love smashing the patties on the grill—it’s like a mini adventure each time. Serve them with fries, and you have a classic meal that’s hard to beat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using an 80/20 blend is ideal for juiciness, but you can try 85/15 for a slightly leaner option. If you’re looking for something different, ground turkey or chicken can work well too, though they won’t be as juicy.
Cheese: I love American cheese for its meltiness, but cheddar gives a nice sharp flavor. Feel free to switch it with Swiss, pepper jack, or even a vegan cheese alternative if you’re looking to avoid dairy.
Buns: Toasted hamburger buns add texture. If you’re gluten-free, try using gluten-free buns or even lettuce wraps for a lighter version.
Special Sauce: This classic mix is easy to customize! Add hot sauce for a kick, or swap out relish for diced jalapeños depending on your taste. You can also use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a healthier alternative.
How Do You Get the Best Sear on Your Burgers?
Searing is key for flavor and texture! First, ensure your griddle or skillet is extremely hot before adding the beef. This will help achieve that delicious crispy crust.
- Heat your griddle over medium-high heat until it’s very hot, about 5 minutes.
- Drop the beef portions on the griddle without forming patties first, allowing them to stay intact while searing.
- Use a heavy spatula to smash each portion down; this maximizes surface area for a better sear.
- Avoid moving the patties during the first cooking stage – that’s how you get that great crust!
How to Make The Best Smash Burger?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices cheese (American or cheddar)
- 4 hamburger buns (preferably toasted)
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- 1/2 cup pickles, sliced
For the Special Sauce:
- 1/2 cup special sauce (mix of mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, and a dash of mustard)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious smash burger recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10-15 minutes to cook. In just about 25-30 minutes, you’ll have juicy burgers ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Griddle or Pan:
Start by heating your griddle or a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Let it get very hot, as this will help create a nice sear on your burgers.
2. Form the Patties:
Take your ground beef and divide it into 4 equal portions, roughly 4 ounces each. Don’t press them into patties just yet; you want them loose for a juicier burger.
3. Sear the Patties:
Once your griddle is hot, place each portion of beef on it. Grab a heavy spatula and smash each portion down gently until it’s about 1/2 inch thick. You’ll want to season them right away with salt and pepper for added flavor.
4. Cook the First Side:
Allow the patties to cook for about 3-4 minutes without moving them. This will help form a crispy crust on the bottom – which is the secret to a great smash burger!
5. Flip and Add Cheese:
Carefully flip the patties over using your spatula. Place a slice of cheese on each patty right away. Let them cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and the beef is cooked through.
6. Prepare the Buns:
While the patties are finishing up, take your hamburger buns and toast them on the griddle until they turn golden brown. This adds a bit of crunch and prevents sogginess from the sauces.
7. Assemble the Burgers:
It’s time to build your burger! Start by spreading the special sauce on the bottom bun. Next, layer on some shredded lettuce, a slice of tomato, and a few sliced pickles. Finally, place the cheesy smash burger patty on top and add the top bun.
8. Serve:
Serve your smash burgers immediately and enjoy them with a side of crispy fries or your favorite snack. Get ready for a burger experience that’s sure to impress!
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef for This Recipe?
While you can use leaner ground beef, such as 90/10, your smash burger may end up less juicy. The 80/20 blend is recommended for that perfect balance of flavor and moisture. If you do use leaner beef, consider adding a bit of beef broth or a dash of oil to keep it from drying out.
What If I Don’t Have a Cast-Iron Skillet?
No worries! You can use any heavy-bottomed skillet or griddle. Just ensure it heats evenly and retains heat well. If your surface isn’t as non-stick, a little extra oil can help prevent sticking during the cooking process.
How Should I Store Leftover Burgers?
If you have any leftovers, store the cooked patties and any fixings separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The patties can last for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm the patties in a skillet over low heat until heated through and toast the buns briefly for best results!
Can I Customize the Special Sauce?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the ingredients in the special sauce to your liking. You could add minced garlic for an extra kick or swap out the relish for chopped jalapeños for a spicy twist. The fun of making this recipe is tailoring it to your taste!
