Why Smash Burgers Work
Smash burgers are an absolute favorite for burger lovers due to their perfectly crispy edges and juicy interiors. The key to making these burgers work so well is the technique of smashing the patty early in the cooking process. This maximizes the beef’s contact with the hot surface, allowing it to form that delicious crispy crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy. This is a result of the Maillard reaction, a process that occurs when proteins and sugars in the beef are exposed to high heat, creating that iconic brown crust that everyone loves.
Ingredients (Makes 4 Burgers)
For the patties
- 1 lb (450g) 80/20 ground beef (Note: do not over-handle)
- Kosher salt
- Fresh cracked black pepper
Cooking
- 1–2 tbsp neutral oil or clarified butter
- Cast-iron skillet or flat-top griddle (must be VERY hot)
For assembly
- 4 soft burger buns (Martin’s potato rolls recommended)
- Butter for toasting the buns
- 4–8 slices American cheese
- Sliced pickles
- Optional: Thinly sliced onions (for “Oklahoma-style”)
Sauce (optional but amazing)
- 2 tbsp mayo
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp mustard
- 1 tsp pickle juice or relish
- Pinch smoked paprika
Step-by-Step Directions: Best Smash Burger
1. Prepare the Beef
Start by dividing the beef into 4 loosely formed balls, each about 4 oz. It’s crucial not to compact the beef too much—loose balls make for a juicier burger. Overworking the meat will result in a dense patty, which isn’t ideal for a smash burger.
2. Preheat Your Cooking Surface
Place your cast-iron skillet or griddle on the stove and heat it over medium-high heat until it’s smoking hot. The key to a good smash burger is a super hot cooking surface that can sear the meat instantly, creating that crispy, flavorful crust.
3. Toast the Buns
While the skillet is heating, take your burger buns and lightly butter each side. Toast them in a separate pan or on the griddle until golden and crispy. Set them aside once done.
4. Smash the Patties
Once your cooking surface is hot, add a thin layer of oil or clarified butter to prevent the patties from sticking. Place 2 beef balls on the griddle at a time, then cover them with a piece of parchment or wax paper. Using a metal spatula or burger press, smash hard until the patties are about ¼-inch thick. This smashing action is what gives the burgers their crispy edges and delicious flavor.
Season generously with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy—this is where much of the flavor comes from.
5. Cook + Flip
Let the patties cook for about 1–1.5 minutes until the edges are golden brown and crispy. Don’t rush this process—those crispy edges are key to the flavor! Once done, flip the patties and immediately place a slice (or two) of American cheese on top. The cheese will melt beautifully, creating a gooey, delicious topping.
6. Assemble the Smash Burgers
Now, it’s time to put everything together. Start by spreading your choice of sauce on the bottom bun. Add the cooked patty (or stack them if you like a double patty). Top with sliced pickles and any other extras like onions if desired. Cap with the toasted top bun.
Tips for Perfect Smash Burgers
- Use 80/20 Beef: The 80/20 ground beef ratio is ideal for smash burgers because it gives you that perfect balance of fat and meat. The fat ensures that the burger is juicy, while the meat creates the perfect sear.
- Don’t Smash After 30 Seconds: Once you’ve smashed the patty, let it cook for about 30 seconds before flipping it. Smashing it again after that will result in a dry burger.
- Let the Edges Get Dark and Lacy: The edges should get dark and crispy. That’s where all the flavor resides.
- Oklahoma-Style Variation: For a true Oklahoma-style smash burger, add thinly sliced onions directly on top of the patties before smashing them. The onions will cook into the patty, adding extra flavor.
Variations: Ultimate Smash Burger Recipe
While the basic smash burger is simple and delicious, there are many variations you can experiment with:
Cheese Variations:
- While American cheese is the classic choice for a smash burger, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, Swiss, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist.
Vegetarian Smash Burger:
- For a vegetarian alternative, swap out the beef patty for a plant-based burger. The same smashing technique works wonderfully with plant-based patties, creating a crispy edge while keeping the inside juicy.
Bacon Smash Burger:
- Add crispy bacon to the burger for a smoky flavor that complements the crispy beef patty.
Spicy Smash Burger:
- If you love a little heat, add jalapeños, a spicy sauce, or pepper jack cheese for a fiery burger experience.
FAQs About Ultimate Smash Burger Recipe
Q: Can I use leaner beef for smash burgers?
A: While you can use leaner beef, 80/20 ground beef is highly recommended for the best balance of flavor and juiciness. Lean beef may result in a dry burger with less crispy texture.
Q: Do I have to use a cast-iron skillet?
A: While a cast-iron skillet is ideal due to its heat retention, any heavy-bottomed skillet or a flat-top griddle will work. Just make sure the cooking surface gets very hot before you start cooking.
Q: How can I make the smash burger patties ahead of time?
A: You can form the beef balls in advance and store them in the fridge for up to a day. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before cooking for the best results.
Q: Can I freeze the patties?
A: Yes, you can freeze the patties. Just separate each patty with a piece of wax paper and store them in an airtight container or ziplock bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Cook them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
Conclusion: Ultimate Smash Burger Recipe
The ultimate smash burger recipe delivers on everything that makes a burger great: crispy edges, a juicy interior, and a perfect balance of flavors. By using 80/20 ground beef, smashing the patties at the right moment, and assembling with the right ingredients, you’ll have a burger that’s better than anything you’ll find at a fast-food joint. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the many delicious variations, this smash burger will quickly become a favorite in your household. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Happy smashing!
