This smash burger recipe is all about super juicy beef patties that are crispy on the outside and soft inside. With minimal ingredients, it’s quick to whip up and absolutely delicious!
You know what makes it even better? Those golden, caramelized edges! I often pile on my favorite toppings, and trust me, it’s hard to stop at just one. 🍔
Making these burgers is so easy. Just shape, smash, and cook! I love how they come together fast, making meal time feel like a fun little adventure at home.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is great for burgers as it keeps them juicy. If you want a leaner option, try 85/15, but be cautious; they may be a bit drier. For a twist, you could also use ground turkey or chicken, though the flavor will differ.
Burger Buns: Brioche is my favorite for its soft, slightly sweet flavor. If you can’t find brioche, hamburger or potato buns work well too. For a healthier twist, try whole wheat buns or even lettuce wraps if you’re going low-carb.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a classic cheeseburger flavor. I love sharp cheddar for extra taste. If you prefer something milder, Monterey Jack or Swiss can be great substitutes.
Special Sauce: The mix of mayo, ketchup, and mustard is simple and delicious! Experiment with different sauces like BBQ or a spicy mayo if you want to change things up.
How Can I Cook the Patties to Get That Perfect Smash?
The smash technique is what makes these burgers so yummy! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a heated skillet or griddle, which is key to getting a nice crust. Medium-high heat works best.
- When you place the beef balls in the skillet, use a sturdy spatula to press down firmly but quickly. This helps create that crispy edge.
- Don’t flip too early! Wait until you see juices rising on the top before flipping the patties. This ensures they’re properly cooked and full of flavor.
Remember to let your burger patties rest for a minute after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for a delicious bite!
How to Make The Best Smash Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burger:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for optimal juiciness)
- 4 burger buns (preferably brioche)
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 medium tomato, sliced
- 1/2 cup pickles, sliced
- 1/2 cup special sauce (mix of mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard or your preferred burger sauce)
For Cooking:
- Cooking oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10–15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need around 20–25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a delicious and quick meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by slicing the tomato and pickles, and set aside the shredded lettuce. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard to make your special sauce. This will add a tasty touch to your burgers!
2. Shape the Patties:
Take the ground beef and divide it into 4 equal portions, each about 4 ounces. Gently roll each portion into a loose ball without overworking the meat. This helps keep the patties juicy!
3. Heat the Griddle or Skillet:
In a large skillet or on a griddle, add a drizzle of cooking oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil shimmers; this means it’s hot enough to cook the burgers!
4. Cook the Patties:
Place the beef balls onto the heated surface and immediately press down on them with a firm spatula to flatten them into thin patties. Season these patties with salt and pepper. Cook for about 3 minutes until the edges turn brown and juices start to form on the top.
5. Add Cheese:
Gently flip each patty over, and put a slice of cheddar cheese on top. Let it cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the patty is cooked all the way through.
6. Toast the Buns:
While the patties are finishing, take the burger buns and place them cut side down in the same skillet. Lightly toast them until they get a golden brown color and are nice and crispy.
7. Assemble the Burgers:
To put your burgers together, spread some special sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Add the cooked patty with melted cheese, then layer on the shredded lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles. Top it off with the other half of the bun.
8. Serve:
Your smash burgers are ready to enjoy! Serve them right away, maybe with some crispy fries on the side for a classic touch. Dig in and savor every bite of your homemade smash burger!
Can I Use a Different Type of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! While an 80/20 blend is recommended for juiciness, you can use leaner ground beef, like 90/10. Just keep in mind that it might be less juicy. If you prefer a richer flavor, consider using ground chuck or even mixing in a bit of ground pork for added moisture.
How Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the special sauce up to 3 days in advance! Just mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard in a bowl, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Give it a good stir before using it to refresh the flavors.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have a Griddle or Skillet?
No problem! You can use a grill instead. Preheat the grill to high heat and follow the same steps for shaping and cooking the patties. Just keep an eye on them to avoid flare-ups and ensure even cooking.
How to Store Leftover Burgers?
If you have leftovers, store the burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to separate the patties from the buns and toppings to keep everything fresh. Reheat the patty in a skillet or microwave until warmed through and assemble with fresh toppings!
