This smash burger recipe is all about juicy beef patties that cook up quickly and get that perfect crispy edge. Topped with your favorites, these burgers are a real treat!
You know what makes a smash burger so special? It’s all in the smashing! I love how simple it is to create that big flavor with just a few ingredients. Grab your buns and let’s get cooking!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using an 80/20 blend gives the burger great juiciness and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you could go for 85/15, but the burgers might be a bit drier. I always stick to the 80/20 for that perfect bite!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is fantastic for its melty texture and rich taste. If you want to switch it up, feel free to try Swiss, American, or even pepper jack for an extra kick!
Buns: While standard hamburger buns work perfectly, consider using brioche or pretzel buns for a gourmet touch. They often add a lovely sweetness or unique flavor!
Special Sauce: This sauce is a game-changer! You can customize it by adding garlic powder or chopped pickles for extra flavor. To make it lighter, swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt.
How Do I Make Sure My Burgers Stay Juicy and Flavorful?
The secret sauce to juicy burgers is in the cooking method! Avoid overworking the meat when shaping the patties; gently form them to keep their tenderness. Also, smashing them down in the skillet helps create that crispy edge while keeping the center juicy. Here’s how to nail it:
- Heat your skillet until it’s really hot before adding the beef balls.
- When you smash the patties, press down firmly with a flat spatula for even cooking.
- Don’t flip them too soon; the longer they cook without disturbing, the better the crust!
How to Make The Best Smash Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burger:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 4 hamburger buns
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1 tomato, sliced
- Dill pickles, sliced
For the Special Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- Hot sauce, to taste
For Cooking:
- Cooking oil (for coating the skillet)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the special sauce and shaping the patties, then around 10-12 minutes cooking them on the stove. In total, expect to spend about 25 minutes to enjoy your homemade smash burgers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Special Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and a dash of hot sauce according to your taste. Stir everything together until it’s nicely blended and set it aside for later.
2. Shape the Burgers:
Take your ground beef and divide it into 4 equal portions, each weighing about 4 ounces. Gently roll each portion into a ball but be careful not to overwork the meat to keep it juicy.
3. Heat the Pan:
Grab a cast-iron skillet or griddle and put it on medium-high heat. Add a little cooking oil to the pan to coat the surface well.
4. Cook the Patties:
Once the skillet is hot, place the beef balls on it. Using a flat spatula, press down on each ball to smash them into thin patties. Season the patties generously with salt and pepper. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes until the edges are crispy and browned.
5. Add Cheese:
Now it’s time to flip the patties! As soon as you do, place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each one and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is wonderfully melted.
6. Toast the Buns:
While your burger patties are cooking, slice the hamburger buns in half and toast them face down in another skillet until they turn golden brown. This adds a nice crunch!
7. Assemble the Burger:
Start building your burger! On the bottom half of each toasted bun, place one cheesy patty. Then, add a handful of shredded lettuce, a juicy slice of tomato, dill pickles for that nice tang, and a good drizzle of the special sauce you made.
8. Finish and Serve:
Cap off your burger with the top half of the bun and serve right away. For an extra treat, pair your smash burger with some crispy French fries!
Enjoy every bite of your delicious smash burger!
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef?
While you can use leaner ground beef, like 90/10, it may result in a drier burger. A fattier blend (like 80/20) is recommended for a juicier and more flavorful smash burger. If you must use leaner beef, try adding a bit of olive oil to maintain moisture.
How Do I Adjust the Seasoning?
Feel free to customize the seasoning to your tastes! If you like a bit more flavor, try adding garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika to the meat before cooking. Just remember to taste as you go to avoid overpowering the burger.
Can I Make the Special Sauce in Advance?
Absolutely! The special sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using, as ingredients may settle.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftover Burgers?
To reheat leftover burgers, use the oven for best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the burgers on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but it may make the buns a bit soggy. If you have leftover patties, consider re-searing them in a skillet for a crispy outside!
