This smash burger recipe is all about juicy, crispy goodness! Perfectly seasoned ground beef is turned into delectable patties that sizzle on the grill or stovetop.
You can’t go wrong with the cheesy, melty layers on top. I love throwing on a few toppings like pickles and ketchup for extra yum. What’s your favorite burger topping? 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and juiciness. However, if you’re looking for a leaner option, 85/15 works too. Just keep in mind it may not be as juicy.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is perfect for its melting quality. If you want to mix it up, try American cheese for that classic burger creaminess or Swiss for a different flavor.
Burger Buns: Toasted burger buns add a nice crunch. If you prefer whole-grain or gluten-free buns, those options work great. Experiment with different types for added flavor.
Pickles: Dill pickles are classic, but you can substitute sweet pickles or even jalapeños for a spicy kick. It’s all about what you enjoy!
How Do I Smash the Burgers Perfectly?
Smashing the burgers is key to getting that crispy edge and flavorful crust. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet or griddle until hot—this is crucial for a good sear.
- Drop the beef balls on the skillet, and press down firmly using a sturdy spatula.
- Don’t be afraid to apply good pressure, but don’t over-squish; aim for about 1/2 inch thickness.
- Season generously after smashing, as this adds flavor right to the crust.
How to Make The Best Smash Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burger:
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juiciness)
- Salt (to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 burger buns (toasted)
- 1 cup lettuce (shredded)
- 1 large tomato (sliced)
- 1/2 cup pickles (sliced)
- 1/2 cup burger sauce (homemade or store-bought, recipe below)
For the Burger Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty smash burger recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend 5 minutes whipping up the burger sauce and about 15 minutes to cook the burgers and assemble everything. Quick and delicious for your meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Burger Sauce:
Start by preparing the burger sauce. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, pickle relish, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir all the ingredients well until smooth and creamy. Cover and refrigerate it until you’re ready to use it. This adds a zesty kick to your burgers!
2. Prepare the Beef:
Take the ground beef and divide it into 4 equal portions, each weighing about 4 ounces. Gently shape each portion into a loose ball. Avoid pressing the meat too tightly, as you want to keep it tender for smashing.
3. Preheat the Cooking Surface:
Next, heat up your cast-iron skillet or flat griddle over medium-high heat. Let it get nice and hot before adding the beef—you want a good sizzle when the meat hits the pan!
4. Cook the Burgers:
Once the skillet is hot, place the beef balls on it. Using a sturdy spatula, smash each ball down firmly until it’s about 1/2 inch thick. Season the patties generously with salt and pepper. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes. You want the edges to get nice and crispy and brown.
5. Add Cheese:
Now it’s time to flip the burgers! Turn each patty over and immediately place a slice of cheddar cheese on top. Let them cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the burgers are cooked to your liking. Yum!
6. Assemble the Burgers:
Take your toasted buns and spread a generous amount of the burger sauce on the bottom half. Place a cheesy burger patty on each bun, then add some shredded lettuce, fresh tomato slices, and pickles on top. Finally, crown it with the top bun.
7. Serve:
It’s time to enjoy! Serve the smash burgers immediately with a side of crispy fries or your favorite sides. Dig in and savor your delicious homemade smash burger!
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef for This Recipe?
While you can use leaner ground beef, such as 90/10, keep in mind that it may result in a drier burger. For the juiciest flavor, it’s best to stick with 80/20 ground beef. If you use a leaner cut, consider adding a bit of beef fat or some bacon to increase moisture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the burger sauce and shape the beef patties in advance. Just store the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, and keep the formed beef balls covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, let the patties sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before smashing to achieve even cooking.
What Are Some Good Substitutes for Burger Sauce?
If you’re out of some ingredients, you can easily tweak the burger sauce! Instead of mayonnaise, you can use Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangy twist. Ketchup can be replaced with BBQ sauce, and the Dijon mustard can be swapped for yellow mustard if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do I Store Leftover Cooked Burgers?
Store any leftover cooked burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet on medium heat until warmed through, adding a slice of cheese during the last minute if you’re craving that gooey effect!
