Get ready for a juicy treat with this easy smash burger recipe! These burgers are crispy on the outside and super flavorful on the inside, thanks to simple ingredients like beef, cheese, and a soft bun.
Honestly, there’s something fun about smashing those patties down on the grill. It’s like giving them a little hug! 😂 Enjoy them with your favorite toppings for a perfect bite every time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is perfect for juicy burgers. If you’re looking for lower fat options, you can use 85/15 or even ground turkey, though it may be less juicy. Just don’t forget to add some oil to keep lean options moist!
American Cheese: It melts beautifully, giving that classic cheeseburger experience. If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to swap it for cheddar or pepper jack for extra flavor. Melt some Swiss cheese for a twist!
Hamburger Buns: Soft buns are key! Regular hamburger buns are great, but for a special treat, try brioche buns. They are slightly richer and add a lovely touch. Gluten-free buns can be a good substitute too.
Special Sauce: Customize your sauce! If you like a little heat, mix in some Sriracha or hot sauce. You can also sub Greek yogurt for mayonnaise if you prefer a lighter version. Don’t hold back on flavor!
How Do You Cook Smash Burgers to Perfection?
Cooking smash burgers might seem simple, but a few steps make a big difference. Here’s how to get them right:
- Use a hot griddle or skillet and add oil to prevent sticking. You want a good sear!
- Form loose beef balls without compacting too much—this keeps them tender.
- When smashing the beef, apply firm pressure for an even thin layer that cooks quickly, creating crispy edges.
- Don’t rush—the sizzling sound is what you want! Let them brown for a couple of minutes before flipping.
These simple tips ensure your smash burgers stay juicy and crispy, giving you that perfect bite every time. Happy cooking!
Easy Best Smash Burger Recipe for Juicy Flavor
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 4 soft hamburger buns
- 4 slices American cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- 1/2 cup sliced pickles
- 4 tbsp butter (for toasting buns)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Special Burger Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp dill pickle relish
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Pinch of black pepper
- Vegetable oil or canola oil (for griddle)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe should take about 10-15 minutes to prepare and cook. You will spend some time making the special sauce and perfecting those juicy smash burgers, so get your taste buds ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Burger Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle relish, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of black pepper. Give it a good stir and set it aside in the fridge while you prepare the burgers.
2. Preheat Your Griddle or Skillet:
Set your griddle or skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of vegetable oil to coat the surface so the burgers don’t stick. You’ll want it hot and ready for that sizzle!
3. Form the Beef into Balls:
Take the ground beef and divide it into 4 equal portions. Gently form each portion into a loose ball—aim for around 3 inches in diameter. Remember, don’t overwork the meat; we want to keep it tender!
4. Toast the Buns:
While your griddle is heating, melt the butter in a separate pan over medium heat. Place the hamburger buns cut side down and toast them until they are golden and slightly crispy. Set them aside for assembly later.
5. Cook the Smash Burgers:
Place one beef ball on the hot griddle. Grab a heavy spatula or a burger press and firmly smash the ball down into a thin patty—about 1/4 inch thick. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Let it cook for approximately 2-3 minutes until the edges are nice and brown—those crispy bits are the best!
6. Flip and Add Cheese:
Carefully flip the patty over, and immediately place a slice of American cheese on top. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the burger is cooked through.
7. Assemble the Burger:
Now it’s time to build your burger! Spread a generous amount of the special sauce on both the top and bottom buns. Place the cheesy patty on the bottom bun, and layer with pickles, tomato slices, and shredded lettuce. Finish with the top bun.
8. Serve:
Enjoy your smash burger immediately with a side of crispy fries and some extra sauce for dipping. You deserve this delicious treat!
Dig in and savor every juicy, flavorful bite of your homemade smash burger! 🍔
FAQ for Easy Best Smash Burger Recipe
Can I Use Lean Ground Beef Instead?
You can, but for the juiciest smash burgers, I recommend sticking to an 80/20 blend (80% lean meat and 20% fat). If you use a leaner cut (like 90/10), consider adding a bit of oil to keep them from drying out.
How Can I Store Leftover Burgers?
To store leftovers, let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat on a skillet or microwave until warmed through!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have a Griddle?
No worries! You can use a regular skillet or frying pan. Just ensure it gets hot enough, and follow the same method for cooking and smashing the burgers for that perfect crust.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the special sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making it even tastier!
