The Best Smash Burger Recipe

There’s something magical about a perfectly cooked smash burger that elevates a casual meal to something special. I remember the first time I tried a smash burger at a friend’s backyard BBQ. The sizzling sound, the charred aroma, and the way the bun cradled all those juicy toppings brought immediate joy. It was so good that I felt inspired to recreate that magic in my own kitchen. As I improved my smash burger technique, I discovered that these burgers are not only delectable but also easy to make right at home.

Smash burgers have a unique way of drawing out the meat’s natural flavors, thanks in part to high heat and a fantastic sear. Using simple, quality ingredients transforms these burgers from ordinary to extraordinary. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few steps, you can achieve that sought-after burger joint quality without leaving your home. So, if you’re ready to dive into a deliciously crispy, juicy delight, let’s get started on this smash burger recipe that will surely steal the show.

Get ready to use your cooking skills and enjoy a flavorful meal that rivals restaurant offerings. We’ll take ground beef, season it just right, and pile on savory toppings, all while keeping the process approachable and fun.

The Best Smash Burger Recipe

Fundamentals

To kick things off, let’s talk about the fundamentals. A smash burger is all about technique and the right ingredients. Use a ground beef blend that has about 20% fat content, which keeps the burger juicy. Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper, as these simple seasonings elevate the natural flavor of the beef.

Gather your equipment: a cast iron skillet or a griddle is essential to achieve that perfect sear. The heat needs to be high enough to create that delicious crust without overcooking the meat. Missteps with heat can lead to dry burgers, and we certainly don’t want that!

Preparation/setup

Preparation starts with dividing the 12 ounces of ground beef into equal 3-ounce portions. Rolling these into balls keeps them compact before smashing. Lay the balls between parchment paper, which prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier.

Next, prepare your sauce ahead of time. Mixing mayonnaise, sour cream, ketchup, mustard, and black pepper creates a creamy base that enhances the burger flavor. Once you’ve combined the ingredients, refrigerate the sauce for the best results.

Ingredients

For the perfect smash burger, gather the following ingredients:

• 12 oz (340g) ground beef (80/20)
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1-2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• Brioche buns
• 2 slices cheddar cheese
• Pickles
• Lettuce
• Onion, thinly sliced
• Tomato slices

These simple ingredients come together for a smash burger that’s bursting with flavor at every bite.

Directions

1. Divide the ground meat into 3 oz (85g) portions. Roll each portion into balls.
2. Place each ball between two pieces of parchment paper. Use the flat side of a mallet to flatten them into thin rounds.
3. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, ketchup, mustard, and freshly cracked black pepper to make the sauce. Mix well and refrigerate.
4. Heat a cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
5. Season one side of the meat with salt and black pepper. Place the seasoned side down onto the hot pan, season the other side, and cook for 1-2 minutes.
6. Flip and cook for another 30 seconds to a minute, topping one patty with cheese.
7. Remove from the pan and toast brioche buns for 30 seconds on the grill.
8. Spread sauce on the bottom bun, top with lettuce, tomato, onion, and the double patties.
9. Add pickles, drizzle extra sauce, and cover with the top bun.

Mastering the Smash Burger Techniques

Technique

Technique plays a crucial role in creating the perfect smash burger. The key lies in the timing and temperature. Make sure your skillet is hot—this creates the ideal sear and keeps the juices inside. Once you lay the beef onto the skillet, press down firmly to achieve that characteristic flat shape.

This doesn’t just create surface area for a flavorful crust; it also enhances the Maillard reaction, giving you that sought-after crispy exterior. While flipping, be mindful not to overcook the second side. Just enough time to melt the cheese will ensure your burger remains juicy and exciting.

Tips/tricks

The art of the smash burger can be enhanced with a few helpful tips. Don’t overcrowd the pan—work in batches if necessary to maintain even cooking. Another excellent tip is to add fat to the skillet before cooking each patty, which adds flavor and helps achieve that perfect crust.

Letting the meat rest briefly after cooking helps retain its juices before assembly. Assembling it all quickly after cooking will ensure everything stays warm and delicious. This attention to detail makes all the difference in the perception of your homemade smash burger.

Perfecting Your Smash Burger Results

Perfecting results

Perfecting your smash burger results means fine-tuning elements like thickness and cooking time. A thinner patty will cook faster and create a more intense crust, while a thicker patty delivers a juicier mouthfeel. Play around with how you cook them, adjusting the temperature and timing based on your preferences.

Experiment with seasoning blends in addition to salt and pepper. A touch of garlic powder or smoked paprika can add a layer of depth to our burgers without being overpowering.

Troubleshooting/variations

Not every attempt will be flawless, but troubleshooting is part of the process. If you find your burgers are too dry, consider using ground beef with a little more fat content. On the other hand, if the crust isn’t crispy enough, ensure your skillet is hot enough and allow the patties enough time to sear.

Consider variations based on your taste. You can add different sauces or toppings tailored to your preferences. Whether vying for extra spice with jalapeños or swapping sauces for a different twist, the possibilities are endless.

Serving Your Smash Burger Masterpiece

Serving/presentation

Serving your smash burger can be just as exciting as preparing it. Present it on a rustic wooden board alongside classic sides like fries or a fresh salad. Layer in your toppings neatly to enhance visual appeal while ensuring flavors meld together beautifully.

The star of the show is the burger itself, so don’t shy away from displaying that delicious melted cheese or vibrant toppings. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a drizzle of your special sauce on top adds a professional touch.

Pairings/storage

While enjoying your smash burger, consider pairing it with a refreshing sidekick like coleslaw or potato wedges. These sides perfectly complement the richness of the burger, keeping the meal balanced.

For storage, keep leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat them on the stovetop to retain their juicy goodness. Feel free to explore burger salads by serving the patties over a bed of leafy greens with fresh toppings, maintaining flavor while being mindful of any dietary choices.

Creating the best smash burger from home shouldn’t feel intimidating. Each bite reflects the time and care you’ve put into preparing and presenting this delightful meal. Enjoy the process and let your culinary skills shine as you share these smash burgers with family and friends.

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