When that first bite of a juicy burger hits your taste buds, it transports you to backyard barbecues and summer gatherings. This recipe for smash burgers takes just about 30 minutes from start to finish and delivers a deliciously crispy exterior with a perfectly juicy inside, making it an instant favorite.
This recipe is perfect for burger lovers and anyone looking for a quick weeknight meal or a fun weekend cookout. You can prepare the sauce in advance for easy assembly, making it a breeze to serve fresh, hot burgers to friends and family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The crispy exterior creates an irresistible texture that contrasts beautifully with the juicy beef.
- It cooks quickly, perfect for satisfying your burger cravings in no time.
- The tangy sauce adds an extra layer of flavor that elevates the classic burger.
- Using a cast iron skillet ensures even cooking and great heat retention.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to make your smash burger.
For the Patties
- 12 oz (340g) ground beef (80/20)
- salt, to taste
- freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1-2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- freshly cracked black pepper to taste
For Assembling
- Brioche buns
- 2 slices cheddar cheese
- pickles
- lettuce
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1-2 tomato slices
Choose high-quality ground beef for the best flavor.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Greek yogurt for sour cream
- Dijon for yellow mustard
- Any burger bun for brioche
- Other cheese varieties can be used
How to Make It
Start creating your smash burger masterpiece with these steps.
1. Divide
Divide the ground meat into 3 oz (85g) portions and roll each portion into balls. Place each ball between two pieces of parchment paper.
2. Flatten
Use the flat side of a mallet to flatten the balls into thin rounds.
3. Make the sauce
Combine all sauce ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Refrigerate until ready to use.
4. Cook the patties
Heat a cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Season one side of the meat with salt and black pepper. Place the seasoned side down onto the hot pan and season the other side with salt and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Flip
Flip the patties carefully and cook for another 30 seconds to a minute. Top one of the burger patties with cheddar cheese, and place the other patty on top. Remove from the pan.
6. Assemble the burgers
Toast the brioche buns on the grill for about 30 seconds, then transfer to a plate. Spread a spoonful of sauce on the bottom bun, followed by lettuce, tomato, and onion. Add the double patties on top, followed by pickles, more sauce, and the top bun. Serve immediately.
How to Store It
Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: no, the texture does not hold up well.
Reheat: in a skillet over low heat for 3-5 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Avoid overworking the meat when forming patties for tenderness.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking when flattening the patties.
- Don’t press down on the patties while cooking to keep the juices intact.
- Customize your toppings to suit your taste!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with crispy French fries or onion rings for a classic meal.
- Serve with a side of coleslaw for a refreshing crunch.
- Enjoy alongside a cold beverage for the ultimate summer BBQ experience.
Leave a Comment