Smash Burgers are a delicious and quick meal that everyone loves. They are juicy, flavorful, and fun to make. This recipe will guide you on how to create the perfect smash burger, packed with all your favorite toppings.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make smash burgers at home. First, they are easy and quick to prepare, making them a great choice for a weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ. Second, they offer a crispy exterior and juicy interior that you just can’t get enough of. Finally, smash burgers are incredibly customizable, allowing you to add your preferred toppings and condiments.
How to Make Smash Burgers
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs Ground Beef (80/20)
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
- 4 slices American Cheese
- 1 Tomato (sliced)
- 4 Leaves Butter Lettuce
- 4 Brioche Buns
- 4 tbsp Butter
Directions:
- Divide the ground beef evenly into 3-ounce portions and form them into balls. Cover and place in the refrigerator while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
- Slice the tomato, wash the lettuce, and prepare any other ingredients that you would like on your hamburger.
- Butter both sides of each bun. Toast the inside of each bun on a griddle or skillet for about 20 seconds until golden brown. Set aside.
- Heat your griddle or cast iron skillet to 400°F (204°C).
- Place two balls of beef on the hot griddle or skillet. You can cook all the hamburgers at the same time if your griddle fits them. Just work quickly because the meat cooks fast.
- Press the ball of meat down with a large flat metal spatula, getting the patty as flat and thin as possible. Cover the meat with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Season with salt and pepper and cook for 2 minutes.
- Flip both patties with a metal spatula, scraping up the crusty layer that has formed underneath.
- Place a slice of cheese on top of one of the patties.
- Cook for 1-2 more minutes. Once the meat is cooked through, place the patty without cheese on top of the patty with cheese. The melted cheese will be sandwiched between both patties.
- Prepare your hamburger by taking the bottom toasted bun and layering on your favorite condiments, followed by lettuce, tomato, and onion.
- Lastly, place your smashed burger on top of the layered vegetables. The meat will help keep everything from sliding out when you eat it! Top it with the other half of your toasted bun and enjoy!
How to Serve Smash Burgers
Serve your smash burgers hot with a side of fries, onion rings, or a simple salad. You can also offer a variety of condiments like ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, and hot sauce for everyone to customize their burgers.
How to Store Smash Burgers
If you have leftovers, let the burgers cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Tips to Make Smash Burgers
- Use high-quality ground beef for the best flavor.
- Make sure your skillet or griddle is hot enough before cooking.
- Don’t be afraid to smash the burgers down; this gives them their unique texture and flavor.
- Experiment with different cheeses and toppings to find your perfect combination.
Variations
You can personalize your smash burgers with various toppings like avocado, bacon, pickles, or spicy mayo. For a healthier option, try using turkey or veggie patties instead of beef.
FAQs
- What is a smash burger? A smash burger is a type of hamburger where a ball of ground beef is smashed onto a hot griddle to create a thin, crispy, and flavorful patty.
- Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, you can use ground turkey or even plant-based patties to make smash burgers if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian option.
- What type of cheese is best for smash burgers? American cheese melts easily and adds great flavor, but you can also use cheddar, Swiss, or any cheese you like!
Now you have all the details you need to make the perfect smash burgers. Enjoy cooking and eating this delicious treat!
Smash Burgers
Ingredients
Beef and Patties
- 1.5 lbs Ground Beef (80/20) Use high-quality ground beef for the best flavor.
- Salt and Pepper to taste Salt and Pepper
Burger Assembly
- 4 slices American Cheese Melted cheese adds great flavor.
- 1 Tomato (sliced) Slice to top burgers.
- 4 leaves Butter Lettuce Wash before use.
- 4 Brioche Buns Brioche Buns Butter and toast before assembly.
- 4 tbsp Butter For toasting the buns.
Instructions
Preparation
- Divide the ground beef into 3-ounce portions and form them into balls. Cover and place in the refrigerator.
- Slice the tomato, wash the lettuce, and prepare any other ingredients.
- Butter both sides of each bun and toast the inside on a griddle for about 20 seconds until golden brown.
Cooking
- Heat your griddle or cast iron skillet to 400°F (204°C).
- Place two balls of beef on the hot griddle, working quickly.
- Press the balls down with a spatula to form thin patties. Cover with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Season with salt and pepper and cook for 2 minutes.
- Flip the patties and place a slice of cheese on one. Cook for 1-2 more minutes until cooked through.
- Sandwich the cheese between two patties.
Assembly
- Layer your favorite condiments on the bottom toasted bun, followed by lettuce, tomato, and onion.
- Place the smashed burgers on top and cover with the other half of the toasted bun.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
