Classic Smash Burgers

Name: Classic Smash Burgers
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 burgers
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 500 g ground beef (80% lean); 4 slices cheddar cheese; 4 burger buns (butter optional); 1 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 tsp salt (or to taste); 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tbsp ketchup; 1 tbsp mustard (yellow or Dijon); 1 tsp pickle juice

20 min 4 burgers Easy

All Recipes

Juicy and flavourful classic smash burgers, perfect for any burger lover!

Prep

10 min

Cook

10 min

Total

20 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Smash burgers are all about simplicity and flavour. Unlike traditional burgers, these are pressed down onto a hot griddle to maximize the crispy, caramelized crust that is the hallmark of this style. The concept is straightforward, but the result is a juicy, delicious burger with a fantastic crust. It's a method that originated in American diners and has gained popularity worldwide, including here in Canada.

Instructions

Prepare the sauce

In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and pickle juice until well combined. Set aside.

Pro tip: Adjust the sauce ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

Form the patties

Divide the ground beef into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, but do not compact them too tightly.

Pro tip: Handling the meat gently will result in more tender burgers.

Heat the griddle

Heat a cast iron griddle or heavy skillet over high heat until it begins to smoke. Add vegetable oil and swirl to coat.

Pro tip: A hot cooking surface is key to achieving the perfect crust.

Smash the patties

Place the beef balls on the griddle. Immediately, using a sturdy spatula, smash them down to about 1 cm (1/2 inch) thickness.

Pro tip: Press down firmly to create a wide, thin patty with crispy edges.

Season and cook

Sprinkle salt and pepper over the patties. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the edges are browned and crispy.

Pro tip: Do not move the patties during this time to let the crust form.

Flip and add cheese

Flip the patties and immediately place a slice of cheese on each. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts.

Pro tip: Covering the pan briefly can help the cheese melt faster.

Toast the buns

If desired, butter the insides of the buns and toast them on the griddle until golden brown.

Pro tip: Toasted buns add a delightful texture to the burger.

Assemble the burgers

Spread the sauce on the toasted buns, add the patties, and any additional toppings you prefer.

Pro tip: Lettuce, tomato, and pickles are classic toppings that complement smash burgers well.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Ensure your griddle or pan is extremely hot before smashing the patties to achieve a perfect crust.
Use a sturdy spatula to smash the patties evenly for optimal texture.
Butter and toast the buns for extra flavour and to prevent them from getting soggy.
Experiment with different sauces and toppings to customize your burger.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recipe for a smash burger?

The recipe involves forming ground beef into balls, smashing them onto a hot griddle, and cooking until crispy.

How do I make the sauce for smash burgers?

A classic sauce is made from mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and pickle juice.

Can I use a different type of cheese for smash burgers?

Yes, you can substitute cheddar with American, Swiss, or any meltable cheese of your choice.

How can I tell when the smash burgers are done cooking?

The burgers are done when they develop a crispy, brown crust on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Can I make smash burgers ahead of time?

It's best to cook smash burgers fresh, but you can prepare the patties and sauce a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your classic smash burgers with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal. These burgers can be made ahead of time; simply form the patties and keep them refrigerated until you're ready to cook. For storage, cooked patties can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently on a skillet to maintain their texture.

Nutrition per serving

550

Calories

30g

Protein

30g

Fat

Juicy burgers bursting with bacon, onion, and cheddar cheese, perfect for a summer BBQ.

Easy40 min

See the recipe

Kitchen & BBQ gear

What we use for recipes like this

See the whole store

Tableware · Wine Glasses

Bormioli Rocco InAlto TRE Sensi Large Wine Glasses Set of 4, 18.5 Oz. Lead-Free Crystal Stemware for Red Wine, Laser Cut Rim & One-Piece Pulled Stem, Clear Italian Glass Design

$49.95

Food Storage · Reusable Bags

20 Pack Reusable Silicone Freezer Bags - Leakproof Food Storage Bag

$19.99

Pit Boss Grills

Ultimate Griddle Infrared Thermometer

$29.99

Affiliate links. Prices come from Amazon and are refreshed at least every 24 hours.