This smash burger recipe is all about juicy beef and crispy edges. You simply form the patties and press them flat on a hot skillet for that perfect sear—yum!
Honestly, these burgers are such a crowd-pleaser! I love loading mine with cheese and all the toppings. Who can resist a good burger night, right? 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. If you prefer leaner meat, 85/15 can work, but it might be less juicy. Ground turkey or a plant-based meat substitute can be great for lighter or vegetarian options.
American Cheese: This cheese melts nicely and gives that classic burger taste. If you want to switch it up, try cheddar for a sharper taste, or Swiss for a nutty flavor. Vegan cheese is a good alternative for a dairy-free option.
Buns: Standard hamburger buns are great, but I often use brioche buns for a sweeter touch. If you want to cut carbs, lettuce wraps work well too. You can also use whole-grain buns for a healthier choice.
Sauce Ingredients: This sauce is customizable! Swap out mayo for Greek yogurt for a lighter version, or leave out pickle relish if you’re not a fan. Adding BBQ sauce can give it a smoky twist.
How Can I Perfectly Smash My Burgers?
Smashing the patties creates a wonderfully crispy crust. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a hot skillet—this ensures a nice sear and locks in flavor.
- When you place the portion of beef in the skillet, use a sturdy spatula to press down firmly. It should be about 1/2 inch thick for optimal cooking.
- Don’t press too hard or too long. After smashing, season the top with salt and pepper for great flavor.
- Keep a close eye on the cooking time (2-3 minutes per side) to avoid overcooking.
- If you want that cheesy goodness, place the cheese on right after flipping, so it melts perfectly!
How to Make The Best Smash Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices of American cheese
- 4 hamburger buns
- Lettuce leaves
- 1 tomato, sliced
- Dill pickles, sliced
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons mustard
- 1 tablespoon pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- French fries (store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend a few minutes making the sauce and forming the patties, followed by about 10 minutes to cook the burgers and toast the buns. Get ready for some deliciousness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Sauce:
In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle relish, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s mixed well. This tasty sauce will add great flavor to your burgers. Set it aside while you prepare the rest.
2. Prepare the Patties:
Take the ground beef and divide it into 4 equal portions, each about 4 ounces. Gently mix in salt and pepper; remember, don’t overwork the meat, just mix enough to season it.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat for several minutes until it’s nice and hot. This will help create that perfect sear on your patties.
4. Cook the Patties:
Place one portion of the ground beef onto the skillet. Using a spatula, smash the beef down firmly until it forms a flat patty. Sprinkle some salt and pepper on top. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes without moving it to get a nice crust.
5. Add Cheese:
Carefully flip the burger and place a slice of American cheese on top. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the burger is cooked to your liking.
6. Toast the Buns:
While your burgers are cooking, slice the buns in half. Lightly toast them on another skillet or on the grill until they turn golden brown. This adds a wonderful texture!
7. Assemble the Burgers:
On the bottom half of each toasted bun, spread a generous amount of your delicious sauce. Layer it with fresh lettuce, a slice of tomato, some dill pickles, and the cheesy smash burger patty. Cap it off with the top half of the bun.
8. Serve:
Serve your burgers right away, alongside some crispy French fries and any extra sauce you might want. Enjoy every bite of your best smash burger!
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef for the Burgers?
While you can use leaner ground beef, such as 90/10, it may result in a less juicy burger. The 80/20 blend is recommended for the best flavor and moisture. If you prefer lean beef, consider adding a small amount of melted butter or cooking oil to keep them moist.
How to Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free smash burgers, simply substitute the regular hamburger buns with gluten-free buns. Check the labels on your condiments for gluten-free options as well, especially the sauces.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld nicely—just give it a good stir before using it!
How Should I Store Leftover Burgers?
If you have leftover burgers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the patty in the skillet over medium heat or microwave it until warmed through. Don’t forget to toast fresh buns for the best experience!
