Smash Burgers
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef
preferably 80%
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 8 slices American cheese
- Hamburger buns
mayonnaise, lettuce leaves, dill pickle slices, sliced tomatoes, and sliced onions, for serving
Directions
- 1
Divide beef into 8 (2-oz.) patties. Very loosely form into a ball, making sure to not tightly pack together.
- 2
Heat an ungreased griddle or large cast-iron skillet over high heat until very hot. Working in batches as needed, place patties on hot skillet. Using a large metal spatula or bench scraper, immediately smash patties down as flat and thinly as you can; season with salt and pepper. Cook until edges start to crisp, about 1 minute. Flip, season with salt and pepper, and cook until other side is browned, about 30 seconds.
- 3
Top patties with a slice of cheese amd continue to cook until cheese melts, about 20 seconds more.
- 4
Serve double-stacked on hamburger buns with desired toppings.
Smash Burgers
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About this Recipe
Craving a burger that’s juicy, wonderfully messy, and tastes like it came from your favorite diner? These smash burgers deliver on all fronts, bringing that irresistible fast-food magic right into your kitchen with ease. Get ready to elevate your weeknight burger game far beyond expectations.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe champions simplicity, leveraging ground beef (preferably 80% lean) for maximum flavor and an ideal fat-to-meat ratio that crisps beautifully when seared. The key to a truly great smash burger lies in developing those flavorful, lacy edges while keeping the interior succulent. Paired with classic American cheese, it melts perfectly, forming a creamy, savory blanket over each patty.
What to Expect
Prepare for a truly satisfying burger experience. You'll bite into patties with gloriously crispy, browned edges that give way to a tender, juicy center. The melty American cheese coats every crevice, offering that distinct savory, creamy note. Nestled in a bun with your choice of mayonnaise, crisp lettuce, tangy dill pickles, fresh tomatoes, and sharp onions, each bite is a perfect symphony of textures and flavors. These burgers are designed for a delicious, hearty meal, perfect for any casual occasion.
Customization & Variations
While classic, these smash burgers are incredibly adaptable. Feel free to experiment with your toppings: consider adding caramelized onions for sweetness or a fried egg for extra richness. For a spicier kick, a few pickled jalapeño slices would be excellent. You can also swap out the American cheese for another quick-melting cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack, though American is truly king for its melt. Don't have dill pickles? Bread and butter pickles offer a different, sweeter tang.
Serving & Context
These smash burgers are ideal for backyard cookouts, game day gatherings, or simply a fun, comforting family dinner. Serve them alongside classic French fries, onion rings, or a simple green salad for a complete and utterly delicious meal.