Unlock the secrets to making the ultimate smash burger at home. This recipe guarantees a crispy edge, juicy middle, and flavors that’ll make you the grill master of your dreams.
Why This Recipe Works
- High heat cooking ensures a crispy, caramelized exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
- Smashing the burger thin maximizes the surface area for that perfect crust.
- Simple seasoning lets the quality of the beef shine through.
- Using a cast-iron skillet or griddle provides even heat distribution for consistent cooking.
- Buttered buns toasted on the same surface add an extra layer of flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for best results)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 soft hamburger buns
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
Equipment Needed
- Cast-iron skillet or flat griddle
- Metal spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Cooking Surface
Heat your cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes until it’s hot enough to sizzle a drop of water immediately. This ensures your burgers will sear properly, locking in juices.
Step 2: Season and Divide the Beef
In a bowl, gently mix the ground beef with salt and pepper. Divide into 4 equal portions. Do not overwork the meat to keep it tender.
Step 3: Smash the Burgers
Place a portion of beef on the hot skillet. Immediately press down firmly with a spatula to smash it into a thin patty. Cook for 2 minutes until the edges are crispy.
Step 4: Flip and Add Cheese
Flip the burger and cook for another minute. Add a slice of cheese on top and cover for 30 seconds to melt. The cheese should be perfectly gooey.
Step 5: Toast the Buns
Butter the insides of the buns and toast on the skillet until golden brown, about 1 minute. This adds a crunchy texture and rich flavor.
Tips and Tricks
For an even crispier burger, press down again after flipping. Use a piece of parchment paper to prevent the spatula from sticking to the meat. Let the burgers rest for a minute after cooking to redistribute the juices. Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for variety. Always use fresh, high-quality beef for the best flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Add caramelized onions and mushrooms for a gourmet twist.
- Mix in Worcestershire sauce and garlic powder into the beef for extra umami.
- Try different buns like brioche or pretzel for a unique taste and texture.
- Top with avocado and bacon for a California-style burger.
- Make it spicy with jalapeños and spicy mayo.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use lean beef for smash burgers?
A: While you can, 80/20 blend is recommended for juiciness. Leaner beef may result in drier burgers.
Q: How do I prevent the burger from sticking to the spatula?
A: Use a piece of parchment paper between the burger and spatula when smashing to prevent sticking.
Q: Can I make these burgers on a grill?
A: Yes, but a flat griddle or cast-iron skillet on the grill is best to achieve the smash effect.
Summary
This smash burger recipe delivers crispy, juicy perfection with simple ingredients and techniques. Follow these steps for a foolproof burger that’s sure to impress.