This smash burger recipe is all about juicy, crispy goodness! Using simple ingredients, you’ll create burgers that are perfectly seasoned and packed with flavor.
Who can resist a burger that’s both crispy on the outside and tender on the inside? I love piling on fresh toppings for the ultimate treat. Yum! 🍔
Making these burgers is so easy! Just smash the patties on a hot grill, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in minutes. Perfect for any day of the week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is perfect for juicy burgers. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use 85/15 beef, but it may be less juicy. For a healthier choice, ground turkey or chicken could work, just be cautious with cooking time since they dry out faster.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a nice sharp flavor. If you’re a fan of creaminess, consider using American cheese as it melts beautifully. Vegan cheese can work too if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Buns: Regular hamburger buns are great, but try brioche buns for a richer flavor or whole wheat buns for a healthier twist. Gluten-free buns are available if dietary restrictions are a concern.
Special Sauce: This sauce is adaptable! Feel free to experiment by adding spices or hot sauce for extra flavor. You can swap out mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
What’s the Best Way to Smash the Patties Without Making a Mess?
Smashing the patties adds a delicious crust, but doing it right is key. First, you’ll want to make sure your cooking surface is really hot. This helps to form that crust. Use a heavy spatula or a burger press to flatten the beef balls without tearing them apart.
- Place your beef ball on the hot surface and quickly press down until it’s about 1/2 inch thick.
- Season immediately with salt and pepper after smashing to lock in the flavor.
- Let it cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes for the best crust, then flip and add cheese right away.
This technique is what sets smash burgers apart from regular burgers, so don’t rush through it!
The Best Smash Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
- 4 hamburger buns
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- 8 dill pickle slices
- 1/2 cup special sauce (2 parts mayonnaise, 1 part ketchup, 1 part mustard, 1 part relish)
Extras:
- Cooking oil (for the griddle or skillet)
- Optional: French fries, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This smash burger recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 10 minutes to cook. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 25 minutes! Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Cooking Surface:
Start by heating a large griddle or skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly coat it with cooking oil to keep the burgers from sticking. This will help get that perfect crispy crust!
2. Form the Patties:
Next, divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions—each about 4 ounces. Gently roll each portion into a loose ball. Don’t pack them too tightly; we want them soft and juicy!
3. Smash the Patties:
When the cooking surface is hot, place the beef balls on it. Using a heavy spatula or burger press, carefully smash each ball down to about ½ inch thick. Season them generously with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
4. Cook the Patties:
Let the patties cook without moving them for about 2-3 minutes. This helps create that nice crispy crust. Then, flip the patties and immediately place a slice of cheddar cheese on each one. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the burgers are fully cooked.
5. Prepare the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, toast the hamburger buns on a separate griddle or in a toaster. You want them nice and golden brown for the best texture.
6. Assemble the Burgers:
It’s assembly time! Start with the bottom bun, add a cheesy patty, followed by some shredded lettuce, tomato slices, dill pickle slices, and a generous dollop of your special sauce. Top it off with the other half of the bun.
7. Serve:
Serve your smash burgers immediately while they’re hot, alongside some crispy French fries for a classic diner-style meal. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use Different Types of Ground Meat?
Yes, you can! While an 80/20 beef blend gives the best flavor and fat content, feel free to experiment with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat’s fat content.
How Do I Prevent the Patties from Sticking?
Coating your griddle or skillet lightly with cooking oil is key. You can also use a non-stick cooking spray. Additionally, make sure the cooking surface is fully heated before adding the patties. Avoid moving them too soon to ensure a good sear and less sticking!
Can I Make the Special Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the special sauce up to a week in advance. Just mix all the ingredients together and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Burgers?
To store leftovers, wrap the cooked patties in foil or place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For reheating, you can use a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Feel free to reassemble with fresh toppings for the best taste!
