There’s something utterly satisfying about the sound of sizzling beef hitting a hot griddle—it’s like music to my ears. With my Smash Burger Recipe, you can recreate that enchanting experience right in your kitchen, delivering juicy, restaurant-quality burgers that are easily customizable to your taste. What’s more, this easy homemade recipe promises to be a quick fix for meal times, packing incredible flavor between your choice of buns. Perfect for a family dinner or an impromptu barbecue, these smash burgers will be the star of any gathering. Want to add a special touch? You can whip up a delicious custom sauce that elevates every bite. Don’t you just love the thought of crafting your culinary masterpiece? Let’s dive into the juicy details! Why is this Smash Burger Recipe a must-try? Juicy, flavor-packed goodness: Each bite of these smash burgers delivers a burst of savory flavor with their perfectly caramelized edges. Customizable toppings: You have the power to personalize your burger experience—try varied cheeses or zesty sauces! Quick and easy: This recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners; it’s ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for gatherings: Impress your friends and family with restaurant-quality burgers that are sure to be the highlight of any barbecue. For a fantastic side, pair with Quiche Savory Brunch for a complete meal! Smash Burger Recipe Ingredients For the Burger Patties • Ground Beef (80/20) – This blend gives your burgers a juicy flavor; feel free to swap it for ground turkey or a plant-based burger for a lighter option. • Salt – Essential for enhancing the meat’s natural flavors; kosher salt offers the best texture. • Pepper – Adds a bit of warmth; fresh cracked pepper provides the best flavor. For the Custom Sauce • Mayonnaise – The creamy base of the sauce; Greek yogurt is a lighter yet delightful substitute. • Sour Cream – Adds a delightful tang; you can use cream cheese if you prefer a thicker sauce. • Ketchup – Brings sweetness and acidity; feel free to substitute with BBQ sauce for a smoky twist. • Mustard – A splash of sharpness; opt for Dijon if you’re looking for a zesty kick. For the Burger Assembly • Brioche Buns – Soft and slightly sweet, perfect for holding those delicious patties; whole wheat or gluten-free buns work great too! • Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully and brings richness; swap it for pepper jack if you like some heat. • Pickles – Provide that fantastic crunch; choose dill for a tangy bite or sweet for a contrasting flavor. • Lettuce, Onion, Tomato – Fresh toppings to liven up your burger; feel free to get creative with your favorite veggies! By following this Smash Burger Recipe, you’re in for a treat brimming with delightful flavors and customizable options that will make every bite a standout experience! Enjoy your cooking! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Smash Burger Recipe Step 1: Prep the Patties Begin by dividing the ground beef into 3 oz portions and gently rolling them into balls. Place these balls between two sheets of parchment paper and use a mallet or heavy skillet to smash them to about ½ inch thick. This process is key for achieving that perfect crispy edge on your smash burger. Step 2: Make the Sauce In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, ketchup, and mustard to create a smooth and creamy sauce. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate your sauce while you cook the patties to let the flavors meld together beautifully. Step 3: Cook the Patties Heat a cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until hot, approximately 5 minutes. Season one side of each smashed patty with salt and pepper. Place the seasoned side down on the skillet and cook without pressing down for 1-2 minutes, until a golden crust forms. Flip, cook for an additional 30 seconds, and add cheddar cheese to one of the patties to melt. Step 4: Assemble the Burgers Toast the brioche buns on the grill or in a toaster until golden brown and slightly crisp. On the bottom bun, generously spread the custom sauce, then layer with crisp lettuce, fresh tomato slices, and onions. Once the patties are cooked, stack them atop the veggie layer, add pickles, drizzle more sauce, and finish with the top bun. Serve your smash burger immediately for a mouthwatering experience! Smash Burger Recipe Variations Feel free to personalize your smash burger experience with these exciting and delicious variations! Ground Meat Swap: Replace ground beef with ground lamb or chicken for a unique flavor profile that’s equally satisfying. A juicy lamb smash burger offers a delicious twist, perfect for those wanting something distinct. Gourmet Cheese: Experiment with blue cheese or gouda for your patty. Don’t forget to try pepper jack if you’re seeking a spicy kick! Each cheese brings its own character, elevating the burger to gourmet territory. Custom Sauce Creation: Swap mayonnaise for a spicy aioli or chipotle mayo to amp up the flavor of your sauce. This simple change can add a delightful zing, making every bite a flavor explosion. Add-Ins: Incorporate bacon bits or creamy avocado for extra richness and texture. A crispy bacon layer can amplify the savory elements, while avocado adds a creamy, fresh element. Veggie Toppings: Try using grilled pineapple or jalapeños for a sweet or spicy touch that can transform your burger game. As you bite into the juicy patty with added toppings, you’ll experience a symphony of flavors. Bun Options: Switch brioche buns for whole wheat or gluten-free alternatives to suit dietary preferences without compromising taste. It’s all about finding that perfect balance between texture and flavor. Sweet Touch: Drizzle your burger with a bit of honey or a touch of maple syrup in your sauce for a sweet and savory combination. The contrast enhances the overall flavor and takes your homemade creation to another level. For more delicious ideas, consider pairing your smash burgers with a delightful side like a scrumptious Quiche Savory Brunch. Expert Tips for the Best Smash Burger Recipe • Patty Preparation: Use parchment paper when smashing the patties to keep hands clean and prevent sticking. This will help make your Smash Burger Recipe hassle-free. • Heat Matters: Maintain medium-high heat. This ensures perfect caramelization for a crispy exterior without drying out the patty. • No Pressing: Resist the urge to press down on the patties while they cook. This helps retain the juices, ensuring a succulent burger that’s full of flavor. • Cooking Time: Keep a close eye on cooking time. Smash burgers are thin and cook quickly—one minute too long can lead to dryness. • Experiment with Toppings: Embrace creativity! Try different cheeses, pickled veggies, or unique sauces to elevate your Smash Burger Recipe and delight your guests. • Freezing Tips: Form and freeze extra patties uncooked for quick meals later. You can pull them out whenever the burger craving hits! What to Serve with The Best Smash Burger Recipe Create the ultimate meal experience by pairing these delicious burgers with sides that bring out their mouthwatering flavors! Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their slight sweetness and crunchy texture perfectly contrast the savory, juicy smash burger, creating a delightful combo. Dip them in your favorite sauce for an extra treat! Classic Coleslaw: Refreshing and tangy, this crunchy salad helps balance the richness of the burger, leaving your palate feeling clean and satisfied. It’s a perfect companion for any summer cookout! Grilled Corn on the Cob: The smoky flavor and sweet kernels of grilled corn elevate the dining experience, adding a touch of summer to your burger meal. Slather with butter and sprinkle with chili for an extra kick! Potato Salad: Creamy and cool, potato salad complements the warmth of your smash burger, making it a picnic classic. Choose a mustard-based recipe to tie in with the flavors of your burger sauce. Pickled Vegetables: Adding a vibrant, tangy crunch, pickled veggies can enhance the flavor profile of your smash burger, bringing brightness and acidity to the dish. They’re a great way to include more vegetables too! Craft Beer or Lemonade: Pairing your burger with a refreshing drink makes for a perfect combo. Craft beer enhances the rich flavors, while lemonade provides a zesty sweetness that cuts through the richness. Treat yourself to this delightful feast that promises to please every guest at your table! Make Ahead Options Planning ahead with this Smash Burger Recipe can save you precious time on busy weeknights! You can form the burger patties up to 24 hours in advance. Simply roll the ground beef into balls, flatten them between parchment paper, and refrigerate. To maintain quality, season just before cooking; this prevents them from drying out. Additionally, the custom sauce can be prepared and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully. When it’s time to serve, just cook the patties for a few minutes in a hot skillet and assemble your burgers with toasted buns and fresh toppings. You’ll have delicious homemade burgers ready with minimal effort! How to Store and Freeze Smash Burger Recipe Fridge: Keep leftover smash burger patties in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Freezer: For uncooked patties, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking. Reheating: To reheat cooked patties, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through, ensuring they remain juicy and flavorful. Make-Ahead: Prepare patties in advance, freeze them uncooked, and enjoy the convenience of having homemade smash burgers ready whenever the craving strikes! Smash Burger Recipe FAQs What should I look for when selecting ground beef for smash burgers? Absolutely! For the best flavor and juiciness, choose 80/20 ground beef. This means 80% meat and 20% fat, which ensures that your burgers are moist and flavorful. Avoid leaner options, as they can dry out during cooking. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, ground turkey is a great substitute. How do I properly store leftover smash burgers? Very! Place any leftover smash burger patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, turning occasionally to prevent drying out. Can I freeze uncooked smash burger patties? How? Absolutely! To freeze uncooked smash burger patties, wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours or overnight, and then cook as per your recipe instructions. What should I do if my smash burgers are too dry? The more the merrier! If your burgers turn out dry, it could be due to overcooking. These smash burgers cook quickly because of their thinness, so monitor them closely; 1-2 minutes per side is usually ideal. Furthermore, resist the urge to press down on the patties while they cook, as this releases precious juices. Are there any dietary considerations for smash burgers? Definitely! If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, feel free to swap ground beef for plant-based options to accommodate vegetarians or those with dietary preferences. For those who are gluten-sensitive, use gluten-free buns. Always be sure to check condiments and sauces for allergens, and enjoy customizing your smash burger experience! How should I enhance the flavor of my smash burger? Oh, the possibilities are endless! Experiment with various toppings like fresh herbs, gourmet cheeses, and pickled vegetables to craft a unique flavor profile. Consider adding a splash of hot sauce or a gourmet aioli to the sauce mix for an extra kick. You might also enjoy including fried eggs or crispy bacon for an indulgent touch! Juicy Smash Burger Recipe: Elevate Your Homemade Grill Game Discover the irresistible Juicy Smash Burger Recipe, delivering restaurant-quality flavor with customizable toppings for any meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 25 minutes mins Servings: 4 burgersCourse: BeefCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Burger Patties1 lb Ground Beef (80/20) Can substitute with ground turkey or plant-based burger.1 tsp Salt Kosher salt recommended for best texture.1 tsp Pepper Fresh cracked pepper provides the best flavor.For the Custom Sauce1/2 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter substitute.1/4 cup Sour Cream Cream cheese can be used for a thicker sauce.2 tbsp Ketchup BBQ sauce can be used for a smoky flavor.1 tbsp Mustard Dijon mustard for added zest.For the Burger Assembly4 units Brioche Buns Whole wheat or gluten-free options are great too.4 slices Cheddar Cheese Pepper jack can be substituted for heat.1 cup Pickles Choose dill for tangy or sweet for contrast.1 cup Lettuce Fresh toppings to elevate the burger.1 medium Onion Freshly sliced.1 medium Tomato Freshly sliced. Equipment Cast Iron SkilletMalletParchment Paper Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by dividing the ground beef into 3 oz portions and gently rolling them into balls. Place these balls between two sheets of parchment paper and use a mallet or heavy skillet to smash them to about ½ inch thick.In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, ketchup, and mustard to create a smooth and creamy sauce. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Cover and refrigerate while you cook the patties.Heat a cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until hot, approximately 5 minutes. Season one side of each patty with salt and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes until golden crust forms, flip and cook for an additional 30 seconds, adding cheese to one patty.Toast the brioche buns until golden brown. Spread custom sauce on the bottom bun, layer with lettuce, tomato, onions, then add the cooked patties, pickles, and more sauce before topping with the other bun. Nutrition Serving: 1burgerCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 20mg NotesThis recipe is a great choice for gatherings and can be customized to fit personal tastes. Freezing uncooked patties allows for future quick meals. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
