Description
Smash Burgers are juicy, crispy-edged burgers made by pressing seasoned ground beef onto a hot griddle or cast-iron skillet to achieve maximum caramelization. Topped with melted American cheese and served on buttered and toasted brioche buns, these diner-style burgers offer a quick, flavorful meal perfect for cookouts or weeknight dinners. Customize with classic toppings like dill pickles, tomatoes, lettuce, onions, and sauces for a satisfying burger experience.
Ingredients
Beef Patties
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20)
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
Cheese
- 8 slices American cheese
Buns
- 4 brioche burger buns
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
Toppings (optional)
- Sliced dill pickles
- Sliced tomatoes
- Shredded lettuce
- Sliced onions
- Ketchup
- Mustard
- Burger sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Divide the beef: Portion the ground beef into 8 loosely packed balls, each roughly 4 ounces, to ensure even burger sizes for consistent cooking.
- Preheat cooking surface: Heat a Blackstone griddle or heavy cast-iron skillet over high heat until very hot, preparing it for the smash technique that creates a crispy crust.
- Toast the buns: Spread softened butter on the brioche buns and place them on the griddle to toast until golden brown. Remove and set aside to keep warm.
- Smash the patties: Place two beef balls on the hot surface, then immediately smash them down flat using a sturdy spatula or burger press to maximize surface contact and caramelization.
- Season the burgers: Sprinkle kosher salt and black pepper evenly over the flattened patties for balanced seasoning.
- Cook first side: Let the patties cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes until a rich brown crust forms on the bottom, which locks in juices.
- Flip and add cheese: Flip each patty and place a slice of American cheese on top to melt while the other side cooks for 1–2 more minutes.
- Assemble burgers: Place two cooked patties on each toasted bun and add your choice of sliced pickles, tomatoes, lettuce, onions, ketchup, mustard, and optional burger sauce.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy the burgers hot for optimal juiciness and flavor, pairing them with sides like fries or onion rings if desired.
Notes
- Use 80/20 ground beef for perfect juiciness and flavor balance.
- Smash the patties only once to preserve tenderness and create crispy edges.
- Butter and toast the buns for added texture and taste.
- Serve with fries, onion rings, or coleslaw for a classic diner-style meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
