Here’s a simple recipe to make delicious Smash Burgers at home:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices of American cheese (or your preferred cheese)
- 4 burger buns
- Butter for toasting buns
- Toppings (optional): lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, ketchup, mustard, mayo
Instructions:
- Prep the Beef:
- Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 ounces each). Roll each portion into a loose ball, but don’t pack it tightly. This helps achieve the classic “smash” effect.
- Heat the Skillet:
- Preheat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over high heat until it’s very hot. You want the surface to be smoking hot to get a good sear.
- Smash the Burgers:
- Place one of the beef balls onto the hot skillet. Using a heavy spatula or burger press, firmly press down on the beef to flatten it into a thin patty. Hold the press for about 10-15 seconds to ensure a good sear. Season with salt and pepper.
- Repeat with the remaining beef balls.
- Cook the Patties:
- Let the patties cook for about 2-3 minutes without moving them. This will create a nice crust.
- Flip the patties, season the other side with salt and pepper, and immediately place a slice of cheese on top. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the burger is cooked through.
- Toast the Buns:
- While the burgers are cooking, butter the insides of the buns and toast them in the skillet until golden brown.
- Assemble the Burgers:
- Place the cooked patties on the toasted buns. Add your preferred toppings like lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, and condiments.
- Serve:
- Serve the Smash Burgers hot with your favorite sides like fries or a salad.
Enjoy your crispy, juicy Smash Burgers with a perfect sear and a melt-in-your-mouth texture!