If you have ever dreamed of biting into a burger that is juicy, crispy-edged, and layered with melty cheese, then you have to try this incredible Smashed Burger Recipe. This burger combines the mouthwatering texture of perfectly crisped edges with the simplicity of fresh ingredients and classic flavors. Every bite delivers that irresistible contrast between the buttery bun, the sharp tang of pickles, the creamy punch of mayonnaise, and the savory goodness of a seasoned patty. It’s a game-changer for anyone who loves a delicious, no-fuss sandwich that feels like a fun indulgence at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The charm of this Smashed Burger Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that pack a serious punch in flavor and texture. Each component is thoughtfully chosen to give you that all-American burger experience with minimal fuss but maximum satisfaction.
- 1 pound 80% ground beef: This blend offers just the right fat content to keep the burgers juicy and flavorful without being greasy.
- Vegetable oil (to brush the pan): Helps achieve the perfect crispy crust on your patties without sticking.
- Salt: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors and creating that signature burger crust.
- 8 slices American cheese: Melts beautifully and brings creamy, nostalgic cheesiness to every burger.
- 4 buns (not too big): Soft and slightly sweet buns balance the savory patty while being sturdy enough to hold all the toppings.
- Mayonnaise. LOTS. not optional.: Creamy and rich, mayo adds moisture and perfect tang that makes the burger satisfyingly rich.
- Ketchup: Classic sweet and tangy addition that complements the burger perfectly.
- Mustard: Adds a subtle punch and cuts through the richness with its sharp flavor.
- Lettuce: Brings a fresh crunch and vibrant color to every bite.
- Tomato: The juicy sweetness balances the savory elements and keeps the burger bright.
- Onions: Adds a mild sharpness — raw or caramelized, your choice!
- Pickles: Crucial for adding a tangy snap that wakes up the palate.
How to Make Smashed Burger Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Pan or Grill
Start by placing a cast iron skillet or griddle on your grill and turning the heat to high. Close the lid and allow it to get very hot, which is the secret to achieving that irresistible crust. If you’re using a stovetop instead, set your skillet to medium-high heat for the same effect.
Step 2: Prepare the Cooking Surface
Brush the skillet generously with vegetable oil. This thin layer ensures your burger won’t stick and that you get a nicely seared bottom with those flavorful brown bits everyone dreams about.
Step 3: Shape the Patties
Grab a ball of ground beef weighing about a quarter pound directly from the package. No need to overwork or pack it tightly — just loosely shape it if necessary. This loose technique is what keeps your burger tender and juicy once smashed and cooked.
Step 4: Smash the Patty
Place the ball on the oiled skillet, working in batches if needed. Using a metal spatula or a grill press, smash the meat down until it spreads out about 4 inches across. This creates those thin edges that crisp up beautifully and deliver the character of a true smashed burger.
Step 5: Season and Cook
Season the patty generously with salt — don’t hold back because salt intensifies flavor and helps form that crust. Close the grill lid, or if cooking indoors, just leave the skillet uncovered, and let it cook undisturbed for around 2 minutes until the edges brown nicely.
Step 6: Flip and Add Cheese
Flip the burger carefully, season the other side with more salt, and immediately top with two slices of American cheese. Let it cook for about one more minute so the cheese melts perfectly and becomes luscious, signaling your burger is ready to come off the heat.
Step 7: Assemble Your Smashed Burger
Serve the hot patties on soft, warm buns slathered with plenty of mayonnaise (we’re serious about this!), plus your choice of ketchup, mustard, lettuce, tomato, onions, and pickles. Feel free to double up by stacking two patties for a hearty double-decker—the thin smashed style delivers better texture and flavor than a thick single patty every time.
How to Serve Smashed Burger Recipe
Garnishes
Your smashed burger shines brightest when topped with classic, fresh garnishes. Lettuce adds a delightful crunch and fresh color, tomatoes bring juiciness and brightness, onions contribute bite, and pickles introduce a tangy zing. Layering these garnishes thoughtfully creates a harmonious explosion of textures and flavors with every mouthful.
Side Dishes
Because this Smashed Burger Recipe is so rich and satisfying, it pairs wonderfully with simple sides like crispy french fries, onion rings, or a fresh coleslaw. For a lighter option, a crisp green salad or grilled corn on the cob complements the bold burger flavors without overwhelming your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling adventurous, turn your smashed burger into sliders for a party-friendly appetizer or stack multiple layers with unique toppings like bacon, jalapeños, or avocado for an exciting twist. You can also try switching bun types—pretzel or brioche buns add a gourmet touch that makes your burger feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover patties or assembled burgers, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 2 days without losing much flavor or texture, making it easy to enjoy your smashed burger again without cooking from scratch.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked smashed burger patties by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then transferring them to a freezer bag once solid. This way, you’ll have pre-portioned patties ready to cook whenever the burger craving strikes. Frozen cooked patties are also doable but may lose a bit of their crispness on reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftover cooked smashed burgers gently in a skillet over medium heat with a cover to retain moisture. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that crispy edge, as it tends to make the meat soggy. Toast your buns fresh to bring life back to your leftover burger.
FAQs
What kind of beef is best for a smashed burger?
Using 80% lean ground beef is ideal because the fat content helps create juicy, flavorful patties and that coveted crispy crust. Too lean, and your burger can become dry; too fatty, and it might be greasy.
Can I use a regular frying pan instead of a cast iron skillet?
Yes, a heavy-bottomed pan works well, but cast iron is preferred because it retains and distributes heat evenly, which is essential for that perfect crust on your smashed burger.
Why do you smash the burger?
Smashing the patty increases surface contact with the hot pan, resulting in a crispy, caramelized crust while keeping the inside juicy. It’s key to the unique texture that defines a smashed burger.
Is it okay to use more than one slice of cheese?
Absolutely! In fact, the Smashed Burger Recipe calls for two slices per patty, which creates a melty, gooey cheese experience that elevates the burger to the next level.
Can I make this recipe ahead for a party?
You can prep the patties ahead and store them frozen or refrigerated, but it’s best to cook and assemble the burgers just before serving for the freshest taste and texture.
Final Thoughts
This Smashed Burger Recipe is a winner every time because it strikes that perfect balance of texture, flavor, and simplicity. Once you try these crispy-edged, juicy burgers loaded with your favorite toppings, you’ll understand why smashed burgers have a devoted following. So grab your skillet, fire up your grill or stove, and get ready for a burger experience that will quickly become a beloved staple in your cooking repertoire. You absolutely can’t go wrong with this one!
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Smashed Burger Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Smashed Burger Recipe delivers a juicy, flavorful burger with crispy edges, achieved by smashing ground beef patties on a hot cast iron skillet or griddle. Topped with melted American cheese and served on soft buns with plenty of mayonnaise and classic burger toppings, it’s a quick and satisfying way to enjoy a classic American favorite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound 80% ground beef
- Vegetable oil (to brush the pan)
- Salt, to taste
- 8 slices American cheese
- 4 buns (not too big)
- Mayonnaise (LOTS, not optional)
- Ketchup, to taste
- Mustard, to taste
- Lettuce, as desired
- Tomato slices, as desired
- Onions, as desired
- Pickles, as desired
Instructions
- Preheat the Cooking Surface: Place a cast iron skillet or griddle on your grill, turn the grill to high heat, and close the lid to let it heat up thoroughly until very hot. Alternatively, you can heat the skillet on a stovetop over medium-high heat.
- Oil the Skillet: Brush the hot skillet with vegetable oil to prevent sticking and promote a crispy crust on the burgers.
- Prepare the Beef: Take 1/4 pound portions of ground beef directly from the package and loosely shape them into balls without packing. Avoid compressing the meat to keep it tender.
- Place Beef on Skillet: Place each ball of beef onto the oiled, hot skillet. Work in batches if necessary—typically two at a time depending on skillet size.
- Smash the Patties: Using a metal spatula or grill press, firmly smash each ball of beef to an approximately 4-inch diameter patty to maximize surface area for a crispy edge.
- Season the Patties: Generously season the patties with salt immediately after smashing. Pepper is optional but can be added to taste.
- Cook the First Side: Close the grill lid (if grilling) or leave open if using stovetop, and cook the patties undisturbed for about 2 minutes, allowing the edges to become brown and crispy.
- Flip and Add Cheese: Flip each patty and season the cooked side with more salt. Quickly add two slices of American cheese atop each patty. Cook for an additional 1 minute until the cheese melts and starts to droop, targeting a medium-rare finish.
- Assemble the Burgers: Remove the patties from the skillet and serve them on warm, soft buns. Generously spread mayonnaise on the buns and add ketchup, mustard, lettuce, tomato, onions, and pickles as desired. For an extra indulgence, stack two thin patties to create a double-decker burger.
Notes
- Using a cast iron skillet or griddle ensures even heat and a perfect sear for crispy edges.
- Do not overwork or pack the beef; it keeps the burgers juicy and tender.
- Mayonnaise is essential for balance and moisture; don’t skimp on it.
- Smashing the patties thin allows for a better sear and flavor development compared to thick patties.
- Adjust seasoning and toppings to your preference for customization.
