Smash Burger Recipe

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 8 mins
Rest Time 2 mins
Total Time 20 mins
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses: , ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 230  C
Servings: 4
Best Season: All Seasons
Description

Learn how to make the ultimate Classic Smash Burger at home! This quick and easy recipe gives you a juicy, crispy-edged burger with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor — perfect for busy weeknights or summer cookouts.

Ingredients
    For the Burger Patties:
  • 450 g ground beef (80/20 mix preferred for juiciness)
  • 1 tsp salt (fine sea salt)
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
    • For the Burger Assembly:
  • 4 burger buns (soft, preferably brioche or potato rolls)
  • 4 slices cheddar cheese (or American cheese for classic melt)
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter (melted, for toasting buns)
    • Optional Toppings:
  • 4 leaves iceberg lettuce (crispy, torn to bun size)
  • 4 slices tomato (thinly sliced)
  • 4 slices dill pickles
  • 4 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tbsp yellow mustard
  • 0.5 small red onion (thinly sliced)
Instructions
    Prepare the Beef
  1. 1
    Form the ground beef into 4 loosely packed balls, each around 110–115g. Handle lightly — do not overpack or compress, as loose packing helps create that signature crispy edge.
    2. Preheat the Pan
  2. 2
    Heat a heavy-bottomed cast iron skillet or griddle over high heat until smoking hot (about 230°C). You want the surface very hot to ensure a good sear.
    3. Toast the Buns
  3. 3
    Brush the cut sides of the buns with melted butter. Place them on the skillet, cut side down, for about 1–2 minutes or until golden and toasted. Set aside.
    4. Smash the Burgers
  4. 4
    Place one beef ball onto the hot pan. Immediately smash it down firmly using a heavy spatula (or a burger press) until it's about 1 cm thick. Season with salt and pepper.
    5. Cook and Flip
  5. 5
    Cook the smashed patty without moving it for 2 minutes or until the edges are crispy and juices appear on the surface. Carefully flip the burger, place a slice of cheese on top, and cook for another 30–45 seconds.
    6. Assemble
  6. 6
    Spread mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard on the toasted buns as desired. Layer lettuce, tomato, and pickles. Place the cheesy smash patty on the bottom bun, top with onions if using, and close with the top bun.
    7. Serve
  7. 7
    Let the burger rest for about 1–2 minutes to let the juices settle. Serve hot with fries or a cold drink!
Note

Beef Tip: 80/20 ground beef (80% meat, 20% fat) is crucial for juicy, flavorful patties.

Press Once Only: Only smash the patty once at the beginning. Repeated smashing after it cooks will squeeze out juices.

Variations: Add bacon, different cheeses, or special sauce for a fun twist.

Storage: Best eaten fresh. You can refrigerate cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat on a hot skillet.

Keywords: quick, easy, beef burger, summer recipe, stovetop cooking
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/smash-burger-recipe/