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delicious homemade smash burger with toppings and grilled to perfection

The Best Smash Burger Recipe

A smash burger is characterized by its thin, crispy edges and juicy interior, achieved by pressing a ball of ground beef onto a hot griddle. This recipe delivers a perfectly caramelized crust and a rich, savory flavor in every bite.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 burgers
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb Ground Beef 80/20 chuck
  • 4 Burger Buns brioche or potato
  • 4 slices American Cheese
  • Salt To taste
  • Black Pepper To taste
Toppings
  • 1/2 Onion thinly sliced
  • 4 pcs Pickles dill pickle chips
  • Ketchup As desired
  • Mustard As desired

Equipment

  • Cast-iron skillet or griddle
  • Sturdy spatula
  • Burger press (optional)

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Divide ground beef into four equal balls, about 4 ounces each, avoiding overworking the meat.
  2. Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over high heat until smoking, then add a ball of beef.
  3. Immediately smash the beef ball into a thin patty with a sturdy spatula or burger press, seasoning generously with salt and pepper.
  4. Cook for 1-2 minutes until a deep brown crust forms, then scrape under the patty to flip.
  5. Immediately place a slice of cheese on top, then cook for another minute until the cheese is melted and the patty is cooked through.
  6. While the second side cooks, lightly toast the burger buns on the same griddle.
  7. Assemble the smash burgers on toasted buns with desired toppings like sliced onion, pickles, ketchup, and mustard.

Notes

For the best smash burgers, ensure your cooking surface is screaming hot before adding the meat. Do not overcrowd the pan, and only flip once for maximum crust development.