This smash burger recipe creates juicy, crispy burgers that are hard to resist. With simple beef, a hot grill, and some cheese, it brings all the flavor you crave in every bite!
You’ll love the fun of smashing the patties down! It gets that perfect sear. I like to add pickles and ketchup for extra kick, but you do you! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is perfect for juicy burgers. If you want leaner meat, a 90/10 blend works but might yield a drier burger. For a twist, try using ground turkey or plant-based patties for a lighter option.
Cheddar Cheese: Classic for burgers, but feel free to switch it up! Swiss, American, or pepper jack can add delightful flavors. Also, for a dairy-free option, look for vegan cheese alternatives.
Buns: Regular hamburger buns are great, but consider brioche or pretzel buns for extra flavor. Gluten-free buns are an excellent option if you’re avoiding gluten.
Special Sauce: This sauce takes the burger to the next level! You can customize it by adding hot sauce for a kick or swapping the mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter take.
How Do I Smash the Perfect Burger Patty?
Smashing the burger is crucial for a tasty crust and juicy interior. Here’s how to do it right:
- First, let your skillet heat until it’s very hot—this creates that delicious sear.
- Once ready, place a meat ball onto the skillet. Use a sturdy spatula to smash it down to about a 1/4 inch thick—the thinner, the crustier!
- Sprinkle salt and pepper on top. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes without moving it so it forms a nice crust.
- For melty cheese, add it during the last minute of cooking.
Always remember not to overwork the meat before cooking; this keeps the burgers tender!
The Best Smash Burger Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
- 4 hamburger buns
- Lettuce (leafy variety, such as iceberg or romaine)
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- Dill pickle slices
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup special sauce (mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and relish mixed together)
- French fries (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious smash burger recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend just a few minutes forming the patties, smashing them on the skillet, and putting together the burgers. Then, enjoy your tasty creation with fries on the side!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Skillet:
First things first, preheat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. You want it to get really hot – this helps create a delicious crust on your burgers!
2. Prepare the Beef:
While the skillet heats up, take your ground beef and divide it into four equal balls, each about 4 ounces. Be gentle; you don’t want to overwork the meat. Just roll it into balls and set them aside!
3. Smash Those Patties:
Once your skillet is hot, take one ball of beef and place it onto the skillet. Use a spatula to smash it down flat, aiming for about 1/4 inch thick. It should sizzle! Sprinkle some salt and pepper on top to season it nicely.
4. Cook and Melt the Cheese:
Let the burger cook for about 2-3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready to flip when a nice crust forms on the bottom. In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each burger to melt beautifully.
5. Toast the Buns:
While your burgers are cooking, you can toast the hamburger buns. Use another skillet or a broiler to toast them until they are golden brown and crispy. Yum!
6. Assemble Your Burgers:
Now, it’s time to build your burgers! Start with the bottom bun. Add the hot smashed patty with melted cheese, then layer on the lettuce, tomato slices, and dill pickles. Don’t forget a generous dollop of that special sauce. Finally, top it off with the other half of the bun.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your delicious smash burgers are ready to be served! Enjoy them hot with a side of crispy French fries. Dig in and savor every bite!
Can I Use a Different Blend of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! While an 80/20 blend is ideal for juiciness, you can use leaner ground beef like 90/10. Just keep in mind that the burgers may be a bit less juicy. If you’re using lean beef, you can mix in a tablespoon of olive oil to help retain moisture.
What If I Don’t Have a Cast-Iron Skillet?
No problem at all! You can use a non-stick skillet or a regular frying pan. Just make sure it’s preheated properly to achieve that nice crust on your burger. If using a non-stick skillet, you may not need to add as much oil to prevent sticking.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make a dairy-free version, simply omit the cheddar cheese and try a vegan cheese alternative if you’d like. For the special sauce, use dairy-free mayo as a substitute, which is widely available at grocery stores.
Can I Prepare the Burger Patties in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time! Shape them as directed, then wrap each patty tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. If you want to store them for longer, freeze them for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw them in the fridge before cooking!
