Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 recommended)
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper
- 4 slices American cheese (or cheddar)
- 2 brioche or potato buns
- 1 tbsp butter or oil (for griddle)
- Optional toppings: sliced pickles, shredded lettuce, sliced onion
- Optional Smash Burger Sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp pickle relish
- Pinch garlic powder
Instructions
Preheat the Surface
Heat a cast-iron skillet or flat griddle over high heat until smoking hot.
Form the Beef Balls
Divide beef into 4 equal balls (about 4 oz each). Do not overwork.
Smash the Patties
Lightly oil the griddle. Place beef balls down and immediately smash flat using a spatula or burger press. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Cook & Flip
Cook 2–3 minutes until deeply browned and crispy. Flip once, add cheese, and cook another 1–2 minutes.
Toast the Buns
Butter buns and toast cut-side down until golden.
Assemble
Stack two patties per bun. Add sauce and toppings. Serve immediately.
Notes
Cooking Tips
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Hot surface is key – the hotter the griddle, the crispier the edges.
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Smash only once – smashing again releases juices.
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American cheese melts best for classic smash burgers.
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Use parchment paper between spatula and beef to prevent sticking.
Variations
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Oklahoma Onion Smash Burger – Smash thin-sliced onions into the patties.
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Bacon Double Smash Burger – Add crispy bacon between patties.
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Spicy Smash Burger – Mix hot sauce into the burger sauce or add jalapeños.
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Cheddar Smash Burger – Swap American cheese for sharp cheddar or pepper jack.
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Lettuce-Wrapped – Skip the bun for a low-carb option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 double burgers
- Calories: 780
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 55g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 42g