This recipe makes the juiciest smash burgers that are crispy on the edges and packed with flavor. You’ll use fresh beef, simple seasonings, and good buns to make this a hit!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a burger that sizzles? I tend to pile on the toppings—cheese, pickles, and a bit of ketchup. It’s a delicious mess, just the way burgers should be! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using an 80/20 blend gives you the right balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, go for 85/15, but you’ll lose some of that rich flavor.
American Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, making it perfect for burgers. If you want something different, try cheddar or pepper jack for a little spice, but keep in mind they won’t melt quite the same.
Burger Buns: A soft, toasted bun is essential! I recommend using brioche or potato buns for extra flavor and texture. Whole wheat or gluten-free buns can also work well as substitutes.
Special Sauce: This sauce is customizable! If you want a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also mix in sriracha or hot sauce for a kick.
How Do I Get Perfectly Smashed Patties?
The key to those delicious, crispy edges on your smash burger is all in the technique. When you form the beef into loose balls, it helps keep those juices inside. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat your skillet to a medium-high heat, so it’s hot when you smash the meat.
- Space the meat balls apart on the skillet to give them room to spread.
- Use a heavy spatula or a burger press and apply firm pressure to smash them down to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Season well with salt and pepper right after smashing to get that flavor into the patty.
Let those edges brown for a tasty crust; don’t be tempted to move them around too much! This will give you the perfect crunch!
How to Make The Best Smash Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 burger buns
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup lettuce, chopped
- 1 tomato, sliced
- 1/2 cup pickles
- 1/2 cup special sauce (mix mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and pickle relish)
For Serving:
- French fries
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful smash burger recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 10 minutes for cooking, making a total of around 20 minutes. You’ll have these burgers sizzling in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Skillet:
Start by preheating your griddle or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s nice and hot. This step is crucial for getting that perfect sear on your burgers.
2. Prepare the Beef:
While the skillet heats up, take the ground beef and divide it into four equal portions (about 4 ounces each). Gently form these portions into loose balls—don’t pack them too tightly, as we want them to stay juicy!
3. Smash the Patties:
Once your skillet is hot, place two of the beef balls onto it, making sure to space them apart. Using a heavy spatula or a burger press, smash each ball down firmly until they’re about 1/4 inch thick. Don’t be shy—this is what gives you that crispy edge!
4. Season and Cook:
Sprinkle some salt and pepper on the smashed patties to season them. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges start to brown and look delicious.
5. Add Cheese:
Now it’s time to flip the patties! When you do, quickly place a slice of cheese on each. Cook for another minute until the cheese is melted and the burgers are cooked through.
6. Toast the Buns:
While your burgers are finishing up, grab a separate skillet and toast the burger buns until they’re golden brown. This adds an extra crunch and flavor!
7. Assemble Your Burgers:
Let’s put it all together! Start by spreading a generous layer of special sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Place a cheesy burger patty on top, then add some chopped lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles. Finally, top them off with the upper half of the bun to complete your masterpiece.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your smash burgers hot with a side of crispy French fries. Best enjoyed with friends or family, dig in and enjoy every bite of your homemade smash burger!
Can I Use Lean Beef Instead of 80/20 Blend?
While you can use lean beef, keep in mind that an 80/20 blend (80% meat, 20% fat) yields a juicier and more flavorful burger. If you opt for lean beef, consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil to the mix to help maintain moisture during cooking.
What If I Don’t Have American Cheese?
You can substitute American cheese with other melting cheeses like cheddar, Swiss, or even pepper jack for an extra kick! Just make sure it’s sliced thin enough to melt quickly on the hot burger patty.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free burger buns and ensure that your special sauce ingredients (like mustard or ketchup) are also gluten-free. Most brands are, but it’s always best to double-check the labels!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the patty in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, and toast the bun separately to maintain that delicious crunch!
