This smash burger recipe is all about juicy flavor! With simple ingredients like ground beef and a little seasoning, you can make a tasty meal in no time.
Honestly, smashing the burgers is the fun part! It’s like giving them a little hug before cooking. I love serving them with crispy fries on the side—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 mix (80% lean, 20% fat) is perfect for juicy burgers. If you’re aiming for a leaner option, 85/15 works too, but you’ll sacrifice some moisture. For a richer flavor, I’d suggest using a mix of ground beef and ground pork.
Cheese: American cheese melts beautifully, making it a classic choice. Cheddar is a great alternative if you want a sharper taste. You could also use Swiss or pepper jack for something different. Just ensure it melts well!
Buns: Soft hamburger buns are ideal, but you can switch to brioche buns for a slightly sweeter flavor. Gluten-free buns are an excellent choice if you have dietary restrictions. Just be sure to toast them for added texture!
Special Sauce: The combination of mayo, ketchup, and mustard creates a rich taste, but feel free to swap out ingredients based on your taste. You could use sriracha for a spicy kick or Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a healthier twist.
How Do I Perfectly Smash the Burgers?
Smashing the burgers is crucial for getting that crispy edge and juicy inside. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use high heat: This allows the burgers to get a nice sear.
- Don’t rush: Once you smash the patties, let them cook for 2-3 minutes without moving them. This helps form a crust.
- Uniformity matters: Aim for patties that are about 1/4 inch thick. Cooking them too thick can lead to an uneven cook.
- Use a skillet or a flat griddle for even heat distribution—it makes a huge difference!
Following these tips will ensure your smash burgers are delicious every time! Enjoy the process and the tasty results!
Easy The Best Smash Burger Recipe for Juicy Flavor
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef, preferably 80/20 mix
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices American cheese or cheddar cheese
- 4 hamburger buns, lightly toasted
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- Dill pickle slices, as desired
- 2 tbsp butter for toasting buns
- For the Special Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil or butter for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious smash burger recipe takes about 20 minutes total! You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and mixing the sauce, and another 10 minutes cooking the burgers and assembling them. Get ready for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Special Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle relish, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined. Cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to use it. This sauce adds a zesty kick to your burgers!
2. Heat the Cooking Surface:
Preheat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of vegetable oil or a small amount of butter and let it heat up until shimmering. This will help get those beautiful golden crusts on our burgers!
3. Form the Beef Balls:
Carefully divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Gently roll each portion into a loose ball—don’t compact the meat too much, as we want it juicy!
4. Toast the Buns:
Spread butter on the cut sides of each hamburger bun. Place them cut-side down on the skillet. Toast for about 1-2 minutes until they’re golden brown, then set aside. Toasting adds flavor and helps the buns hold up better!
5. Cook Smash Burgers:
Place the beef balls onto the hot skillet. Using a sturdy spatula or a burger press, firmly smash each ball down into a thin patty, about 1/4 inch thick. Cook without moving them for about 2-3 minutes until the edges are crispy and browned—this is where the flavor builds!
6. Flip and Add Cheese:
Carefully flip the patties, seasoning with a little salt and pepper. Immediately place a slice of cheese on each patty. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is nice and melted and the patties are cooked through!
7. Assemble the Burgers:
Grab a toasted bun and spread a generous amount of the special sauce on the bottom. Layer the first cheese-topped patty, followed by the second patty if you want extra flavor! Top with pickle slices, tomato, onion, and shredded lettuce. You can add more special sauce on the top bun if you like it saucy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Close up your burger and serve immediately with crispy fries or your favorite side. Savor the juicy, flavorful smash burgers you just created with gooey cheese and tangy sauce!
Dig in and enjoy your delicious masterpiece!
FAQ for Easy The Best Smash Burger Recipe
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef?
While you can use leaner ground beef (like 90/10), keep in mind that it may result in a drier burger. The 80/20 mix is ideal for that juicy flavor, but if you prefer lean options, just be sure not to overcook the patties!
What is the Best Way to Store Leftover Burgers?
If you have leftovers, store the cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but this might make the buns a bit soggy, so be cautious!
Can I Make the Special Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the special sauce a day in advance and keep it in the fridge in a sealed container. This allows the flavors to meld and makes assembling your burgers even quicker when you’re ready to eat!
What Can I Substitute for the Buns?
If you’re looking for alternatives to traditional hamburger buns, consider using brioche buns for a sweeter taste, lettuce wraps for a low-carb option, or gluten-free buns if you have dietary restrictions. Just make sure to toast them for the best texture!
