Description
Smash burgers are crispy-edged, juicy-in-the-middle burgers that rely on a sizzling hot griddle and simple ingredients to deliver full-on flavor. With buttery toasted buns, melted cheese, and optional custom toppings, this recipe is designed for indulgent weeknights, backyard cookouts, or anytime you crave the kind of burger that drips with flavor.
By smashing the beef into the griddle, you’re creating a crisp, caramelized crust that seals in moisture and adds depth with just a few seconds of effort. Customize with sauces, pickles, lettuce, or keep it classic with cheese and onions.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper
4 slices American cheese
4 soft burger or potato buns
2 tbsp unsalted butter (for toasting buns)
Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, tomato slices, sliced pickles, onions
Optional sauce (see below)
Burger Sauce (optional)
½ cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp mustard
1 tsp pickle relish
Dash smoked paprika or garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your griddle or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until smoking hot.
- Form the ground beef into 2-ounce balls, being careful not to over-handle.
- Butter and toast the buns on the griddle until golden, then remove and set aside.
- Place beef balls on the hot griddle. Smash each immediately with a spatula until about ¼-inch thick.
- Season patties with salt and pepper.
- Let cook for 2 minutes without touching to develop a crust.
- Flip each patty and immediately top with cheese. Cook another 1–2 minutes until cheese melts.
- Stack two patties per burger if desired.
- Assemble burgers with toasted buns and toppings of choice.
- Serve hot and enjoy immediately.
Notes
Smashing the patties too late or flipping too early will ruin the crust. Time it right.
American cheese offers classic melt, but experiment with cheddar, pepper jack, or gouda.
Toasting the buns is optional—but it adds texture and prevents soggy bottoms.
Burger sauce can be made ahead and kept chilled for a week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Griddle
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 550