I have to admit, there’s something magical about biting into a freshly made smash burger. The way the patties are super thin yet juicy, the gooey cheddar melting between layers, and that light crunch from brioche buns lightly toasted on the grill… Heaven!
When I tried this recipe at home, I was amazed at how simple it was to recreate that perfect restaurant burger everyone craves. It feels like comfort food, but better because you made it yourself.
Whether it’s for a quick dinner or hosting a burger night, these smashed beauties are a game-changer. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll be your go-to burger for any occasion.
What Makes This Recipe Stand Out?
Smash burgers aren’t just any regular burgers. They’re thin, flavorful, and all about crisping the meat while locking in juiciness. Here’s why you’ll adore this recipe:
Quick and Easy to Make 🍔
These burgers come together in no time! The prep is minimal, and the actual cooking is done within 15 minutes. Whether you’re a beginner or a busy cook, this recipe will fit perfectly into your day.
Fully Customizable Toppings
You can load these burgers up or keep them simple. From fresh lettuce and zesty pickles to caramelized onions or even spicy jalapeños, every burger can be tailored to suit your cravings.
Perfect for Feeding a Crowd
When you need to whip up a meal for friends or family, this is the ultimate option. Since they cook so quickly, you’ll have everyone fed without breaking a sweat.
Big on Flavor
The smashing process creates crispy edges while keeping the patties juicy, and the sauce adds an extra zippy layer of deliciousness. Every bite is downright irresistible!
Versatile Cooking Methods
No grill? No problem! You can make these in a cast-iron skillet or on an indoor grill. That means you get restaurant-quality results anytime, no matter the season.
How Long Does It Take?
Here’s the breakdown of your total time investment:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
Key Ingredients Needed
Here are the essentials to create your burger masterpiece:
- Ground beef
- Cheddar cheese slices
- Burger buns
- Iceberg lettuce
- Tomatoes
- Pickles
- Red onion
- Mayonnaise
- Yellow mustard
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
Add Some Variety to Your Burgers
Make this recipe work for everyone with these fun twists:
- Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based cheese or skip the cheese altogether while keeping the patties as delicious as they are.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Swap buns for lettuce wraps to make a keto-friendly smash burger.
- Spicy Version: Add jalapeños or sriracha to your burger sauce for a fiery kick.
- Herbed Patties: Mix fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro into the beef before smashing for an elevated flavor.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Cast-Iron Skillet or Griddle: Perfect for achieving the caramelized crust.
- Burger Press or Spatula: Helps flatten the patties evenly.
- Parchment Paper: Makes smashing the patties much easier.
- Knife: For prepping toppings and slicing buns.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Best Smashed Burger 🌟
If you’re craving a juicy, flavorful burger with crispy edges and melty cheese, this step-by-step guide will help you make the perfect smashed burger at home!
Prep Your Ingredients
Start by dividing the ground beef into small portions, about 3 ounces each. Roll them into loose balls but don’t overwork them. Chill these in the fridge while you prepare the toppings. Shred iceberg lettuce, slice tomatoes, red onions, and dill pickles, and toast your buns on a skillet.
Make the Signature Sauce 🥄
Stir together mayonnaise and yellow mustard for a simple, tangy burger sauce. This step is quick but really adds a lot of flavor.
Get Smashing on the Grill! 🔥
Heat your skillet or griddle to medium-high. Place the beef balls onto the hot surface, then cover each with a piece of parchment paper. Smash them flat with a press or spatula until they’re thin. Remove the parchment, season the meat, and cook for two minutes. Then, flip the patties, add a slice of cheese on one, and top it with another patty.
Assemble Your Burger 🧑🍳
Spread the sauce on the bottom bun, stack pickles, lettuce, and tomato slices, followed by the cheesy double patty. Top it off with the other half of the bun. Repeat for all burgers, and serve them hot!
Serve Them Right 🍟
Present your smash burgers on a large platter alongside French fries, corn on the cob, or a fresh salad. If you want to elevate the vibe, wrap them in parchment paper for a restaurant-style touch. Add a refreshing lemonade or a cold soda to finish the meal perfectly.
Top Tips for a Smashingly Burger
- Keep the Beef Cold: Unlike steaks, burger meat should hit the skillet straight from the fridge. Cold beef prevents the fat from breaking down prematurely, ensuring juicy patties.
- Don’t Over-Smash: Smash the patties just once during the cooking process. Over-smashing can drain the juices, leaving you with dry meat.
- Opt for 80/20 Beef: The fat keeps these burgers moist and full-flavored. Avoid lean meat, as it doesn’t yield the same mouthwatering results.
- Toast the Buns: A good smash burger needs a sturdy base. Lightly butter and toast your buns for the perfect soft, yet crispy texture.
- Parchment is Your Best Friend: Using parchment keeps the meat from sticking and makes smashing hassle-free.
Nutritional Facts for Each Burger
Each smashed burger is satisfying and packed with deliciousness. Here’s what you’re looking at per serving:
- Calories: 730
- Protein: 42g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fat: 59g
Make-Ahead Magic and Storage Tips
To make entertaining even easier, you can prep some components ahead. I recommend rolling the meat into balls a day before and keeping them covered in the fridge. 🍔
After cooking, smash burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 325°F for about 10 minutes, or warm them on the stovetop.
Freezing is also an option! Cooked patties can be frozen in a single layer, then transferred to a freezer bag once solid. They’ll stay good for up to 3 months!
With this foolproof recipe, you’re all set to bring the joy of smash burgers to your table. Time to fire up that griddle, gather your favorite toppings, and enjoy the ultimate homemade burger experience.
For more details, watch this YouTube video:
Classic Smashed Burger Recipe
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Cheddar cheese slices
- Burger buns
- Iceberg lettuce
- Tomatoes
- Pickles
- Red onion
- Mayonnaise
- Yellow mustard
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
Instructions
- Start by dividing the ground beef into small portions, about 3 ounces each. Roll them into loose balls but don’t overwork them. Chill these in the fridge while you prepare the toppings. Shred iceberg lettuce, slice tomatoes, red onions, and dill pickles, and toast your buns on a skillet.
- Stir together mayonnaise and yellow mustard for a simple, tangy burger sauce. This step is quick but really adds a lot of flavor.
- Heat your skillet or griddle to medium-high. Place the beef balls onto the hot surface, then cover each with a piece of parchment paper. Smash them flat with a press or spatula until they’re thin. Remove the parchment, season the meat, and cook for two minutes. Then, flip the patties, add a slice of cheese on one, and top it with another patty.
- Spread the sauce on the bottom bun, stack pickles, lettuce, and tomato slices, followed by the cheesy double patty. Top it off with the other half of the bun. Repeat for all burgers, and serve them hot!
- Present your smash burgers on a large platter alongside French fries, corn on the cob, or a fresh salad. If you want to elevate the vibe, wrap them in parchment paper for a restaurant-style touch. Add a refreshing lemonade or a cold soda to finish the meal perfectly.
Notes
- Keep the Beef Cold: Unlike steaks, burger meat should hit the skillet straight from the fridge. Cold beef prevents the fat from breaking down prematurely, ensuring juicy patties.
- Don’t Over-Smash: Smash the patties just once during the cooking process. Over-smashing can drain the juices, leaving you with dry meat.
- Opt for 80/20 Beef: The fat keeps these burgers moist and full-flavored. Avoid lean meat, as it doesn’t yield the same mouthwatering results.
- Toast the Buns: A good smash burger needs a sturdy base. Lightly butter and toast your buns for the perfect soft, yet crispy texture.
- Parchment is Your Best Friend: Using parchment keeps the meat from sticking and makes smashing hassle-free.
