Classic Smash Burger
The Smash Burger is the epitome of crispy, juicy, and craveable. Originating from the American Midwest, this burger style is all about simplicity and bold flavor. What makes it unique is the smashing technique that creates delightful caramelized edges and a juicy center—an irresistible contrast in texture that's beloved in burger joints and home kitchens alike.
Equipment
- Cast iron skillet or griddle
- Spatula (preferably metal)
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
For the Burger Patties:
- 1.5 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend) look for freshly ground chuck for a juicier patty
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt to season the patties
- 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Burger Build:
- 4 slices American cheese preferably deli-style for better melt
- 4 pieces potato burger buns toasted for added texture
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter for toasting the buns
- 0.25 cup dill pickle chips optional
- 0.25 cup shredded iceberg lettuce cold and crunchy
- 1 medium red onion thinly sliced
For the Burger Sauce:
- 0.25 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon pickle juice from dill pickles
Instructions
- Divide the 1.5 pounds of ground beef into 4 equal balls (about 6 ounces each). Do not overwork the meat—keep them loose for better texture.
- Preheat a cast iron skillet or griddle over high heat until just smoking—about 3-4 minutes. No oil needed due to high-fat content in the beef.
- Place the beef balls on the hot surface and immediately smash them down with a metal spatula until very thin—roughly 1/4" thick. Use wax paper between the meat and spatula if needed.
- Season with kosher salt and black pepper. Let cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until the edges are crispy and deeply browned.
- Flip and immediately top with American cheese. Cook another 1 minute until the cheese melts. Remove from heat.
- While burgers cook, toast the buns in a skillet with melted butter until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes.
- Mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and pickle juice in a small bowl to create the burger sauce.
- Assemble Each Burger: Bottom bun with sauce, lettuce, onion, smashed patty with cheese, pickles, and more sauce. Cap with top bun.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free buns.
- You can double smash patties for a more indulgent burger.
- Use two spatulas if you need better leverage to smash the meat properly.
Nutrition
Calories: 679kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 34gFat: 57gSaturated Fat: 22gPolyunsaturated Fat: 8gMonounsaturated Fat: 21gTrans Fat: 3gCholesterol: 163mgSodium: 1308mgPotassium: 582mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 497IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 274mgIron: 4mg
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