This smash burger recipe is all about juicy beef patties with a crispy edge! It features simple ingredients like fresh ground beef, soft buns, and your favorite toppings. Yum!
You’ll love how quick and fun it is to make. Just smash those patties right on the grill and watch the magic happen! I usually pile on some cheese—because, why not? 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The 80/20 blend is my go-to for juiciness and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 85/15 works too, but keep in mind it may be drier.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for a robust flavor, but you could easily swap in American cheese for a creamier melt or even pepper jack if you like a hint of spice!
Hamburger Buns: Brioche buns are a favorite of mine for their richness, but regular hamburger buns work well too. You can use whole wheat or gluten-free buns if needed.
Special Sauce: The mix of mayo, ketchup, mustard, and relish is classic. You can try adding sriracha for some heat or Greek yogurt for a lighter option!
How Do You Smash Burgers for the Best Crust?
Smashing the burgers is key to achieving that wonderful crust. This special technique not only forms a great sear but also enhances flavor. Remember to let your skillet get very hot first!
- After rolling the beef into balls, place them on the skillet and smash them gently with a spatula or burger press until they’re about 1/2 inch thick.
- Season them with salt and pepper right after smashing, as it helps the seasoning stick to the meat.
- Cook until a crispy crust forms for about 3-4 minutes before flipping, and add cheese immediately after flipping for melty goodness.
How to Make The Best Smash Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burger:
- 1 lb 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 tomato, sliced
- Dill pickles, sliced
- 1/2 cup special sauce (mix of mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and relish, to taste)
For Serving:
- French fries (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This simple and delicious smash burger recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and about 15 minutes for cooking, totaling around 25 minutes. You’ll love how fast and easy it is to get this mouthwatering meal on the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating a heavy skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. If you’re using cast iron, let it get really hot—this is key for a great sear on your burgers!
2. Form and Season Patties:
Next, take the ground beef and divide it into 4 equal portions, about 4 ounces each. Roll each portion into a loose ball, but remember not to overwork the meat. We want juicy burgers!
3. Smash the Patties:
Once your skillet is hot, carefully place the beef balls onto the skillet, making sure to leave enough space between each one. Now, using a sturdy spatula or a burger press, smash each ball down to about 1/2 inch thick. Generously season each patty with salt and pepper for flavor.
4. Cook the Burgers:
Let the patties cook for about 3-4 minutes until a nice crust forms on the bottom. Then, flip the burgers and immediately place a slice of cheddar cheese on each one. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and the burgers are cooked to your liking.
5. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, cut the hamburger buns in half and toast them on the skillet until they’re golden brown. This adds a lovely crunch to your burger!
6. Assemble the Burger:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Start with the bottom bun, add a cheesy patty on top, followed by shredded lettuce, a couple of tomato slices, dill pickles, and a generous spoonful of your special sauce. Finally, top it off with the other half of the bun.
7. Serve:
Serve your delicious smash burger right away with a side of crispy French fries for a fantastic meal. Enjoy every bite of your homemade smash burger!
Can I Use a Different Type of Ground Meat?
Absolutely! While an 80/20 ground beef blend is ideal for its fat content and flavor, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat as alternatives. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly, as leaner meats may cook faster.
How Do I Make a Gluten-Free Smash Burger?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the hamburger buns with gluten-free buns. Many brands offer delicious options that mimic traditional burger buns. You can also serve the burger on lettuce wraps for a low-carb option!
Can I Make the Special Sauce in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the special sauce ahead of time! Mix all the ingredients (mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and relish) and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. This way, you can have it ready whenever you plan your smash burger night!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Burgers?
If you have leftovers, place the burgers in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 2 days. To reheat, it’s best to use an oven or skillet to preserve the texture. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the buns soggy. Just reheat the patties and buns separately until warmed through.
