🔥 Introduction:
Smash burgers are all about maximum crust and flavor. Unlike thick burgers, these are smashed thin on a hot surface, creating a crispy, caramelized crust (the Maillard reaction at its finest). They’re quick, easy, and loaded with classic burger goodness. Perfect for a backyard BBQ, weeknight dinner, or when you’re just craving a legit burger.
🧂 Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the patties:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 fat ratio is best)
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper
- Butter or neutral oil (for greasing the pan)
For the burger build:
- 4 burger buns (potato buns recommended)
- 4 slices of American cheese (or cheddar)
- 1 small onion, finely diced (optional)
- Pickles (dill slices)
- Lettuce and tomato (optional, but delicious)
- Burger sauce or mayo, ketchup, mustard (your call)
For the burger sauce (optional but amazing):
- 2 tbsp mayo
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp pickle relish or finely chopped pickles
- Dash of hot sauce (optional)
- Pinch of paprika or smoked paprika
🔧 Method & Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
- Divide the beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each), roll them into loose balls. Don’t pack them tight — loose = juicy.
- Prepare all toppings and toast your buns lightly on a skillet or in the oven until golden. Set aside.
- Mix all burger sauce ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.
Step 2: Heat It Up
- Heat a cast iron skillet or flat griddle over high heat until it’s smoking hot. This is critical for that crispy crust.
- Lightly grease the surface with a bit of oil or butter.
Step 3: Smash Time
- Place a beef ball on the hot skillet. Immediately press it down hard with a metal spatula (use a second spatula or a burger press for leverage).
- Smash it thin — about 1/4 inch thick. Hold the pressure for 10 seconds.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Optional: Sprinkle diced onions directly onto the patty as it cooks.
Step 4: Flip & Cheese
- Let the patty cook undisturbed for 2 minutes until the edges are brown and crispy.
- Flip the patty and immediately top with cheese.
- Cook for another 1–2 minutes until the cheese melts and the patty is fully cooked.
Step 5: Assemble the Glory
- Spread burger sauce on the bottom bun.
- Add lettuce and tomato (optional).
- Place the patty (or double stack if you’re feeling bold) on the bun.
- Top with pickles and the top bun.
✅ Tips for Success:
- Use 80/20 ground beef. You need that fat for flavor and juiciness.
- Don’t season the meat ahead of time. Only salt and pepper the patty once it’s smashed on the pan.
- Smash once. Don’t smash again after flipping — you’ll lose juices.
- Serve immediately. Smash burgers are best hot off the griddle.
😍 Final Thoughts:
This smash burger recipe delivers the ultimate balance of crispy edges, juicy interior, gooey cheese, and tangy sauce. Pair it with fries, a cold drink, and maybe some napkins — it’s going to get deliciously messy.