Juicy Smash Burger (Printable)

Classic American-style patties with crispy edges, juicy center, melted cheese, and fresh toppings on toasted buns.

# What You'll Need:

→ Beef

01 - 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)

→ Seasonings

02 - 1 tsp kosher salt
03 - 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

→ Buns & Toppings

04 - 4 burger buns
05 - 4 slices American cheese (or cheddar)
06 - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
07 - 1 large tomato, sliced
08 - 4 lettuce leaves
09 - 4 tbsp burger sauce (mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard blend)
10 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for toasting buns)

→ Optional Additions

11 - Dill pickle slices

# How To Make:

01 - Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and loosely roll into balls without packing tightly
02 - Heat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over high heat until very hot
03 - Place beef balls on hot skillet and firmly smash down with heavy spatula or burger press until about 1/2-inch thick
04 - Season immediately with salt and pepper, cooking without moving for 2-3 minutes until edges are deeply browned and crispy
05 - Flip burgers, top each patty with cheese slice, cook 1-2 minutes more until cheese melts and burgers are cooked through
06 - While burgers cook, melt butter in separate skillet or on griddle, toast buns cut side down until golden brown
07 - Spread burger sauce on bottom buns, layer lettuce, tomato, onion, add smash patties, add pickles if desired, cover with top bun
08 - Serve immediately while hot

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The crispy lace edges are what dreams are made of
  • Takes less time than delivery and tastes infinitely better
02 -
  • Smash hard and fast, hesitation creates uneven patties
  • Let the pan reheat between batches or you lose the crust
03 -
  • Chill your beef balls in the fridge for 30 minutes before cooking
  • Use a bench scraper or second spatula to help flip messy patties

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