Smash Burger Recipe – The Ultimate Juicy & Crispy Burger
The Best Smash Burger Recipe You’ll Ever Try
If you’re craving a restaurant-quality burger made right in your kitchen, this smash burger recipe is the one you need. Unlike regular burgers, smash burgers are pressed flat on a hot skillet, creating crispy edges while keeping the inside juicy and flavorful. They’re quick, easy, and perfect for family dinners, weekend barbecues, or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Burger Patties:
- 500g (1 lb) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Burger Sauce:
- 60g (¼ cup) mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp yellow mustard
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp pickle relish (optional)
For Assembly:
- 4 brioche burger buns (lightly toasted)
- 4 slices American cheese (or cheddar)
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- Lettuce leaves
- Pickles (optional)
How to Make Smash Burgers – Step by Step
- Preheat the Skillet
Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy frying pan over medium-high heat until very hot. A hot surface is the key to that crispy crust. - Form Loose Meat Balls
Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 125g / 4 oz each). Roll them into loose balls—don’t pack them tightly. - Smash the Patties
Place one beef ball on the skillet. Using a burger press or a flat spatula with parchment paper on top, press it down hard until it’s very thin (around ¼ inch). Season with salt and pepper. - Cook Until Crispy
Let the patty cook for about 2 minutes, without moving it, until the edges are dark and crispy. Flip, then immediately place a slice of cheese on top. Cook another 1–2 minutes until the cheese melts. - Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and relish until smooth. - Assemble the Burger
Spread burger sauce on toasted buns. Layer with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles (if using), and the cheesy patty. Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.
Tips & Variations for the Perfect Smash Burger
- Meat Choice: An 80/20 beef-to-fat ratio works best. Too lean, and your burger will dry out.
- Cheese Options: American cheese melts beautifully, but cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack add different flavors.
- Bun Upgrade: Brioche buns add a buttery richness, but potato rolls are a great alternative.
- Make it Healthier: Swap beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. You can also try a plant-based patty for a vegan smash burger.
Why This is the Best Smash Burger Recipe
This isn’t just another burger—it’s a flavor-packed experience. The high heat creates a crispy crust known as the Maillard reaction, while the inside stays juicy. Combined with creamy sauce, melty cheese, and fresh toppings, every bite is pure perfection. For more burger inspiration, check out this guide on Serious Eats, one of the top authorities in cooking techniques.
FAQs About Smash Burgers
1. Can I make smash burgers without a cast-iron skillet?
Yes! While cast iron works best, you can use any heavy-bottomed frying pan. Just make sure it’s preheated well.
2. Do I need to use a burger press?
Not at all. A sturdy spatula and parchment paper work just fine for pressing the patties flat.
3. How do I stop the patties from sticking?
Ensure your skillet is very hot before smashing, and use parchment paper between the spatula and beef for easy release.
Final Thoughts & Call to Action
There you have it—the ultimate smash burger recipe that’s crispy, juicy, and absolutely irresistible. Once you try it, you’ll never go back to regular burgers again.
Love this recipe? Try our other family-favorite Chocolate Cake Recipe and explore 100+ easy recipes on GreenBeanCasseroleRecipe.com.
If you’re looking for even more inspiration, you can explore hundreds of creative Smash Burger recipe ideas on our Pinterest Profile.
