Smash Burger Recipe

There’s something uniquely satisfying about sinking your teeth into a well-made burger, and the Smash Burger Recipe is no exception. I still remember the first time I tried a smash burger at a local diner, where the patties were crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. It was an experience that ignited my passion for burgers, and since then, I’ve been on a quest to replicate that deliciousness at home. What I love most about this recipe is how simple, yet extraordinary, it is. The technique of smashing the beef onto a hot griddle is what truly transforms it into something special. As the burger cooks, it forms a delightful crust, locking in all those savory flavors. Whether I’m grilling in the summer sun or making a quick dinner for friends, this recipe always shines. Trust me, once you try this Smash Burger Recipe, you won’t want to eat burgers any other way!

What Goes Into Smash Burger Recipe

The ingredients for this Smash Burger Recipe come together beautifully, creating a symphony of flavors and textures. Each component plays a vital role in ensuring a delicious outcome. The star is, of course, the beef, which provides a savory base, while toppings like lettuce, tomato, and pickles add freshness and crunch. With simple, quality ingredients, you can create a fantastic meal that’s sure to impress.

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (80/20) – This ratio ensures the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness, crucial for a great burger experience.
• Salt – Enhances the flavor of the beef, bringing out its natural savory notes.
• Black Pepper – Adds a subtle kick that complements the burger perfectly.
• Garlic powder (optional) – While optional, it can elevate the flavor profile with a hint of aromatic goodness.
• 4 slices medium cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully over the patties, adding a rich creaminess.
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise – Serves as a base for a flavorful burger sauce, bringing moisture and tang.
• 1 tsp yellow mustard – A classic condiment that adds a zesty kick to the burger.
• 4 burger buns – Choose brioche for a buttery richness that complements the savory patties.
• 2 cups iceberg lettuce (shredded) – Provides a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the burger.
• 1 large tomato (sliced) – Adds juiciness and bright flavor.
• 1/2 red onion (sliced into thin rings) – Offers sharpness and a bit of sweetness.
• 2 dill pickles (cut into 12 slices) – Brings acidity and crunch to enhance the burger experience.

Making Smash Burger Recipe

Making smash burgers is not just about cooking; it’s an experience that brings joy. I love the sound of beef sizzling on the griddle, the aroma that fills the air, and the anticipation of that first bite. Let’s dive into the steps of crafting these delicious burgers.

1. Start by dividing the ground beef into eight even portions of about 3 oz each. Loosely roll them into balls, but don’t pack them too tightly. Cover them and refrigerate while you prepare the other ingredients. Keeping the meat cold is key for achieving that perfect crust when cooking.
2. Next, remove any wilted leaves from the iceberg lettuce to ensure it stays crisp. Finely shred the lettuce and set it aside. Then, slice the tomato, red onion, and pickles so they’re ready to top your burgers.
3. Butter the burger buns on one side and toast them on medium heat until golden brown. This step adds a nice crunch and flavor to the bun, elevating the overall burger experience.
4. Heat your griddle to medium/high heat. Once hot, place 2 to 4 of the beef balls onto the griddle. Quickly place a square of parchment paper over each one and, using a burger press or spatula, smash straight down to form a thin patty. This is where the magic happens!
5. After smashing, peel back and discard the parchment paper. Season the patties generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder if desired. Add a half teaspoon of burger sauce on top. Cook for about 2 minutes or until they’re well-seared and juices start bubbling up.
6. Using a metal spatula, carefully scrape under the burger at a 45-degree angle, then flip it over. Cook for another minute. If you want cheese, place a slice of cheddar on half of the patties and cover them with another patty to make a double stack.
7. Repeat the smashing and cooking process with the remaining beef balls, transferring each finished burger to a platter as they’re done.
8. Now it’s time to assemble! Spread mayonnaise on the bottom of each toasted bun. Top with three slices of dill pickles, a handful of shredded lettuce, two slices of tomato, and a few rings of red onion.
9. Add your double burger patty on top, and crown it with the other half of the bun. Press down slightly to secure everything together. And there you have it, a delightful Smash Burger ready to eat!

Ways to Customize

What I love about the Smash Burger Recipe is how adaptable it is. You can easily change up the ingredients to suit your tastes and preferences. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Try Different Cheeses: Experiment with cheeses like pepper jack for some heat, or gouda for a smoky flavor. You could also skip cheese altogether if you prefer.
• Mix in Spices: Incorporate spices into the beef for added flavor. Smoked paprika, cumin, or cayenne pepper can give your burgers a unique twist.
• Swap the Buns: Instead of traditional buns, try using lettuce wraps, portobello mushrooms, or even crispy potato buns for something different.
• Add Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Consider avocado, fried eggs, or even coleslaw for a delightful crunch.
• Make it a Meal: Serve your smash burger with sides like sweet potato fries, onion rings, or a fresh salad for a complete meal experience.
• Experiment with Sauces: Instead of the classic mayonnaise and mustard, try aioli, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy relish to switch things up.
• Vary the Cooking Method: If you don’t have a griddle, you can easily make these on a grill, in an air fryer, or even on a cast iron skillet on the stovetop.

What to Serve With Smash Burger Recipe

When it comes to serving your delicious Smash Burger Recipe, the options are endless. Here are some ideas to make your meal complete:

• French Fries: Classic and beloved, fries are the perfect side. Whether you prefer traditional, sweet potato, or loaded fries, they pair perfectly with burgers.
• Onion Rings: Crispy onion rings add a delightful crunch and flavor contrast to your juicy burger.
• Coleslaw: A fresh coleslaw brings a refreshing crunch and tanginess that complements the richness of the burger.
• Salads: Consider a simple green salad or a Caesar salad for a lighter option. The crisp greens balance the richness of the burger.
• Grilled Vegetables: For a healthy side, serve grilled vegetables like zucchini, peppers, or corn on the cob for a smoky flavor.
• Potato Salad: A classic summer side, potato salad is creamy and satisfying alongside your smash burger.
• Pickles: Serve extra pickles on the side for those who love that tangy crunch with their burger.
• Seasonal Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can be a great way to cleanse the palate after a rich burger meal.
• Drinks: Pair your burgers with refreshing drinks like lemonade, iced tea, or even a milkshake for a classic diner feel.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Smash Burger Recipe is truly a standout dish that brings joy to any meal. Its unique cooking method and simple ingredients come together to create a flavor-packed experience that’s hard to resist. I encourage you to try making these burgers; they’re not just a meal, but a celebration of flavor and fun. So gather your loved ones and enjoy this burger bliss!

Smash Burger Recipe

The ultimate comfort food, this Smash Burger Recipe delivers juicy, crispy burgers that will satisfy your cravings. With simple ingredients and an easy technique, you can create a delicious meal in no time. Perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners, you'll want to make this recipe tonight!

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Prep Time 18 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (80/20) divided into 8 portions (3oz each)
• Salt added to taste
• Black Pepper added to taste
• garlic powder optional, added to taste
• 4 slices medium cheddar cheese we love thick-sliced
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tsp yellow mustard
• 4 burger buns we used brioche buns
• 2 cups iceberg lettuce shredded
• 1 large tomato sliced
• 1/2 red onion sliced into thin rings
• 2 Dill Pickles cut into 12 slices

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Peeler

Method

 

1. Divide beef into 8 even portions, about 3 oz each. Loosely roll them into balls then cover and refrigerate while preparing remaining ingredients (you can prep and refrigerate the balls of meat 1-2 days ahead). The meat must be cold when it hits the grill.
2. Remove wilted leaves from lettuce to keep it crunchy then finely shred. Slice tomatoes, onions, and pickles.
3. Butter and toast buns over medium heat until golden on the buttered side.
4. Increase griddle to medium/high heat. Place 2-4 burger balls onto a hot griddle. Working quickly, place a square of parchment paper over the meat and use a burger press or spatula to firmly smash straight down into a thin patty.
5. Once patties are smashed, peel back and discard parchment papers and season patties with salt, pepper and garlic powder. Add 1/2 teaspoon of burger sauce. Cook 2 minutes on the first side or until seared and juices start to come to the surface.
6. Scrape under the burger with a metal spatula facing down at a 45˚ angle to get under the caramelized part and flip. Cook another 1 minute. Top half of the patties with sliced cheese and cover cheese with the second patty. Repeat with remaining burgers and transfer them to a platter as they finish cooking.
7. Place sauce on bottom of bun. Top with 3 pickle slices, shredded lettuce, 2 tomato slices and thin sliced onion. Add double patty and top with bun.

Notes

Here are some tips for making your smash burgers even better:

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