If you love juicy beef patties with crispy edges, this smash burger recipe is for you! It’s super easy to make, and you only need ground beef, soft buns, and your favorite toppings.
I always get excited when I hear that sizzle as the patties smash down in the pan. This burger is all about big flavor and fun! Pair it with fries, and you’ve got a meal everyone will love!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is perfect for juicy burgers since the fat adds flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use ground turkey or lean beef, but they might be a bit drier.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to swap it for American cheese for that gooey melt. Swiss or Pepper Jack can also work well for a unique flavor twist!
Burger Buns: I love brioche buns for their softness and slight sweetness. If you’re avoiding gluten, look for gluten-free burger buns that hold up well. Whole wheat buns can also be a healthier alternative.
Special Sauce: This sauce is customizable! You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter version or add a sprinkle of hot sauce for a spicy kick. Experiment with ingredients for your desired taste.
How Do You Smash Patties Without Making a Mess?
Smashing the patties correctly is key to achieving that crispy crust. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a cast-iron skillet for even heat. Preheat it well to ensure a good sear.
- Gently roll the beef into balls without packing them too tightly.
- Once in the skillet, press down firmly with a heavy spatula or burger press for a flat shape. Hold for a few seconds to ensure it sticks.
- Don’t move the patties for the first few minutes! Let them cook to get that delicious crust.
With these tips, your smash burgers will be crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside!
How to Make The Best Smash Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burger:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for optimal juiciness)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
- 4 burger buns (classic or brioche)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- Dill pickles, sliced
- 1/2 cup special sauce (mix mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and pickles)
- Cooking oil for frying
- Optional: onion slices or other desired toppings
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking and assembling the burgers. It’s quick and fun!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by gathering all your ingredients together. Wash the tomato and slice it, shred the lettuce, and whip up your special sauce. To make the sauce, just mix mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and finely chopped pickles in a bowl. This adds an extra zing to your burgers!
2. Preheat the Cooking Surface:
Next, heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add a splash of cooking oil to prevent the burgers from sticking.
3. Form the Patties:
Now, take the ground beef and divide it into 4 equal portions, about 4 ounces each. Gently roll them into balls. Be careful not to overwork the meat; you want them tender!
4. Smash the Patties:
Once your skillet is ready, place the beef balls onto the skillet. Using a heavy spatula or press, smash each ball flat to about 1/2 inch thick. Don’t forget to sprinkle salt and pepper generously on top!
5. Cook the Patties:
Let the patties cook without moving them for about 2-3 minutes. This is how you get those tasty, crispy edges! When they’re ready, flip each patty over and pop a slice of cheddar cheese on top. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melty and the burgers are cooked through.
6. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, toast your burger buns in a separate skillet or on the grill until they’re lightly golden. This adds a nice crunch!
7. Assemble the Burger:
Let’s put it all together! On the bottom bun, place a cooked burger patty with melted cheese. Then add shredded lettuce, a slice of tomato, dill pickles, and a generous amount of your special sauce. Finally, top it off with the other half of the bun.
8. Serve:
Serve your smash burgers hot alongside some crispy fries. Enjoy every bite of your delicious homemade smash burgers!
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef for This Recipe?
While you can use leaner ground beef, I recommend sticking to an 80/20 blend for the juiciest burgers. Leaner beef might result in a drier burger since fat adds flavor and moisture. If you must use lean beef, consider adding a bit of extra oil to the skillet for cooking to help maintain moisture.
How to Store Leftover Smash Burgers?
Store leftover smash burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the patties in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side, or warm them in the microwave, again for a couple of minutes, until heated through. You can also toast the buns for a fresher texture!
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Make the special sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This not only saves time on burger night but also allows the flavors to meld together for an even tastier condiment!
What Variations Can I Try for Toppings?
Feel free to customize your smash burger with any toppings you love! Some popular additions are crispy bacon, sautéed onions, jalapeños, or avocado. Just be mindful of their moisture content, as some ingredients (like tomato) can make the burger soggy if piled too high. Enjoy experimenting!
