This smash burger recipe brings you juicy beef patties that are perfectly crispy on the edges. With simple seasonings and soft buns, it’s all about that wonderful taste!
Feeling a little fancy? Top your burger with cheese, pickles, and your favorite sauces. I could eat these every day—no judgment here, right? 🍔😄
What I love most is how quick and easy they are to make. Just smash and sizzle, then devour! Perfect for a fun dinner or a weekend treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 beef blend is perfect for juiciness and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 90/10 works too, but the burgers may be less juicy. For a twist, you could even use ground turkey or chicken, though they will require different cooking times.
American Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, giving that classic burger texture. If you’re not a fan, try cheddar, Swiss, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just remember, not all cheeses melt the same way!
Buns: I recommend classic hamburger buns, but feel free to use whole wheat, brioche, or even gluten-free buns if needed. Just ensure they’re sturdy enough to hold the fillings without falling apart!
Special Sauce: The special sauce is easy to customize! If you’re looking for a healthier version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also add hot sauce for a spicy flavor or swap out the relish for chopped jalapeños for more heat.
How Do I Get the Perfect Smash on My Burgers?
Smashing the meat is key to getting that crispy edge. Start by keeping the meat loosely packed into balls, as overpacking can lead to tough burgers. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your skillet to medium-high until it’s really hot. A hot pan ensures a good sear.
- When adding beef balls, give each one space in the skillet. Use a sturdy spatula to press down firmly – the goal is a thin patty!
- Season immediately after smashing for the best flavor. Let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes so they can develop that gorgeous crust.
By following these steps, you’ll create perfectly crispy and delicious smash burgers every time!
The Best Smash Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Burger:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for juiciness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 hamburger buns, toasted
- 4 slices of American cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- Pickles, as desired
- 1/2 cup special sauce (recipe below)
For The Special Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp relish
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes for cooking. In total, you’re looking at about 25 minutes from start to finish for these delicious smash burgers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Special Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, relish, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. Set aside so the flavors can blend.
2. Prepare the Beef:
Take the ground beef and divide it into 4 equal portions (about 4 ounces each). Gently roll each portion into a loose ball. Remember, you want them to be loose—don’t pack them tightly!
3. Heat a Skillet:
Place a large skillet or cast-iron pan on the stove over medium-high heat. Let it get really hot! Optionally, add a light drizzle of oil if your skillet tends to stick.
4. Cook the Burgers:
Once the skillet is hot, place the beef balls in the skillet with some space between them. Using a spatula, smash each ball down to flatten it into a thin patty. Sprinkle some salt and pepper on top. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges are browned and crispy.
5. Add Cheese:
Carefully flip the patties over. As soon as you do, place a slice of cheese on top of each patty. Let it melt while the other side cooks for another 1-2 minutes.
6. Toast the Buns:
While your burgers are cooking, it’s time to toast the buns! You can pop them in a toaster or place them on a separate skillet until they are nice and golden brown.
7. Assemble the Burgers:
To put everything together, spread a generous amount of the special sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Layer on some shredded lettuce, a slice of tomato, pickles, and then top it with the cheeseburger patty. Cap it off with the top half of the bun.
8. Serve:
Serve your delicious smash burgers right away, alongside your favorite fries or snacks. Enjoy your meal—you’ve earned it!
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef?
While you can use leaner ground beef, it might result in drier burgers. An 80/20 blend (80% meat, 20% fat) is recommended for optimal juiciness. If you prefer leaner beef, consider adding a little olive oil or butter to keep the burgers moist.
How Can I Make a Dairy-Free Version?
To make a dairy-free smash burger, simply omit the American cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free cheese alternative. For a bit of extra creaminess, you can add avocado slices or a dairy-free sauce instead!
Can I Prepare the Special Sauce in Advance?
Absolutely! You can make the special sauce up to 3 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Stir well before using, as the ingredients may separate.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Burgers?
If you have leftovers, store the assembled burgers separately from the buns in airtight containers. The burgers will keep in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as they can become tough.
