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Smash Burgers

These classic smash burgers feature thinly pressed, crispy-edged beef patties with melted cheese, served on toasted buns with your favorite fresh toppings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 burgers
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 lb Ground Beef (80/20 Chuck) divided into 4 balls
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
  • 4 Cheese Slices American or Cheddar
  • 4 Burger Buns brioche or potato
  • 4 leaves Lettuce
  • 1 Tomato sliced
  • 1/2 Onion thinly sliced
  • 8 slices Pickles
  • Ketchup/Mustard/Mayo to taste

Equipment

  • Cast Iron Skillet or Griddle
  • Sturdy Spatula or Bacon Press

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Divide ground beef into four equal, loose balls. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Cooking
  1. Heat a cast iron skillet or griddle over high heat until smoking. Place a beef ball on the hot surface, then immediately smash it flat with a sturdy spatula or bacon press to about 1/4-inch thickness.
  2. Cook for 1-2 minutes until a deep crust forms. Scrape under the patty, flip it, and immediately place a cheese slice on top. Cook for another 30-60 seconds until cheese is melted and patty is cooked through.
  3. While burgers cook, lightly toast the insides of the burger buns on the same griddle or a separate pan until golden.
Assembly
  1. Assemble burgers by placing a cheesy patty on a toasted bun, then layering with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and your favorite condiments. Serve immediately.

Notes

For the best crust, ensure your cooking surface is extremely hot before smashing the patties. Avoid overworking the meat when forming the balls to keep them tender.