These smash burgers are juicy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying! With a perfect crispy edge and melted cheese on top, they’re a real treat for burger lovers.
You won’t believe how easy they are to make! Just grab some ground beef, smash it in the pan, and watch it sizzle. I usually pair them with some crispy fries—delicious! 🍔🍟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The 80/20 blend is ideal for a juicy burger, but if you’re looking for leaner options, you can try 85/15. Just remember, with less fat comes less flavor, so you might want to add some spices.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for that extra kick. If you’re looking for alternatives, Swiss or American cheese also melt beautifully on burgers, or try a vegan cheese for a plant-based option.
Buns: Brioche and potato rolls are my favorites because they’re soft yet sturdy. If you want a healthier option, whole-wheat buns work well, or use lettuce wraps for a low-carb version.
Lettuce: Leafy romaine gives a nice crunch, but iceberg will add an extra crispiness. You can swap it out for spinach or kale for a nutritional boost.
Special Sauce: This sauce is customizable! If you don’t have all the ingredients, a simple mix of mayo and ketchup works. For a spicy twist, add some hot sauce or sriracha!
How Do I Get the Perfect Smash on My Burgers?
Smashing the burgers is key to creating that lovely crust and juicy patty. Here’s how to do it right:
- Form your beef into loose balls; don’t pack them tightly to keep the air in for a juicy bite.
- Preheat your skillet well. A hot skillet ensures that the burgers sear nicely when you smash them.
- Use a sturdy spatula or a burger press. Place the beef ball on the skillet and smash down hard and fast to get a good crust.
- Leave enough space between patties so they can cook evenly. After smashing, season them generously with salt and pepper!
Following these tips will help you master the art of the smash burger, ensuring they turn out delicious every time!
How to Make The Best Smash Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for optimal juiciness)
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
- 4 hamburger buns (preferably brioche or potato rolls)
- Lettuce (leafy romaine or iceberg)
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- Dill pickles, sliced
- 1/2 cup Special Sauce (recipe below)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking oil (for searing)
For the Special Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp dill pickle relish
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious smash burger recipe will take you about 15 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking, adding up to a total of 30 minutes. That includes time to mix up the special sauce and cook the juicy burgers to perfection!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Special Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, dill pickle relish, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and then set it aside for later.
2. Form the Beef Patties:
Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions, each about 4 ounces. Gently form them into balls, but don’t squish them too much—keep them loosely packed for a juicy burger!
3. Preheat the Skillet:
Heat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Pour in a thin layer of cooking oil, making sure the surface is evenly coated.
4. Cook the Burgers:
Once the skillet is hot, place the beef portions on it. Using a sturdy spatula or burger press, smash each portion down firmly. Sprinkle them generously with salt and pepper. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes until a nice crust forms.
5. Add Cheese:
Carefully flip the smashed patties and place a slice of cheddar cheese on each one. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the burgers are cooked to your liking.
6. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are finishing, slice the hamburger buns in half. Toast them in a separate skillet or on the griddle until they turn golden brown and slightly crispy.
7. Assemble the Burgers:
It’s time to put it all together! Spread a generous amount of the special sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place the cooked burger patties with melted cheese on top, followed by lettuce, tomato slices, and dill pickles. Finish with the top bun.
8. Serve:
Serve your smash burgers hot with a side of crispy fries, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that ground turkey or chicken will result in a different flavor and texture. Use a blend that’s at least 85% lean to keep some juiciness. You may want to add a bit more seasoning or a drizzle of olive oil to maintain moisture while cooking.
How Can I Make the Special Sauce Lighter?
You can create a lighter version of the sauce by substituting Greek yogurt or a light mayonnaise for the regular mayonnaise. This will reduce the calories without sacrificing too much flavor. Adjust other ingredients to taste as needed!
What if I Don’t Have a Cast-Iron Skillet?
No worries! You can use any heavy skillet or griddle that can withstand high heat. Just make sure it’s well heated before adding the burgers for the best sear. If you use a non-stick skillet, you may need to use less oil since they’re naturally non-stick.
How to Store Leftover Smash Burgers?
To store leftovers, place cooked patties and toppings in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them quickly in the microwave or on a skillet. Just reassemble with fresh buns for the best taste when serving again!
