Smash Burgers are a modern twist on the classic burger, boasting a crispy, caramelized crust with a juicy center. Perfected with American cheese, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomatoes, these burgers bring the restaurant-style experience to your home kitchen effortlessly.
Budget information
Total Recipe Cost: $17.20
Cost Per Serving: $2.15
Why This Recipe Works
Smash burgers have swiftly risen to stardom in the burger world for their unbeatable combination of texture and flavor. The secret lies in the cooking technique where the beef’s juices and fats create a delectable crust on the hot griddle. This method not only locks in all the flavors but also forms an irresistible bite that is both crisp on the outside and tender on the inside. With each bite, you’ll experience a crescendo of flavor, enhanced by the melting American cheese and the fresh toppings. Best of all? You don’t even need a backyard grill — just you, your skillet, and a little bit of burger magic.
Ingredients + optional substitutions
– 1 lb 100% grass-fed ground beef ($7.00) – You can substitute with ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative.
– 4 slices of American cheese ($1.50) – Feel free to use cheddar or a vegan cheese slice.
– 4 potato buns ($3.00) – Brioche buns are a delicious alternative.
– 1 large tomato, sliced ($1.20) – Use heirloom tomatoes for more flavor.
– 1 cup shredded lettuce ($1.00) – Any leafy greens work as a substitute.
– 1 tablespoon butter ($0.50) – Margarine or a dairy-free alternative can be used.
– Homemade burger sauce ($2.00) – Mix equal parts mayonnaise, ketchup, and diced pickles.
– Pickles ($1.00) – Optional, but recommended for a tangy crunch.
Step-by-step recipe instructions
Step 1: Begin by forming your ground beef into small, loosely packed pucks, about 4 ounces each. Place these on a tray so they are ready to be smashed. The looser the meat, the better it will form a crust when smashed.
Step 2: Prepare your toppings by slicing the tomatoes thinly and shredding the lettuce. This organization helps for quick assembly once the patties are cooked.
Step 3: Heat a cast iron skillet on high. Once hot, place a heavily buttered, split potato bun face-down until golden and crispy, about 1-2 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet, add a puck of beef and immediately top it with parchment paper. Using a sturdy spatula or burger press, smash it down until it’s very thin. Let it cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to develop that signature crispy edge.
Step 5: Flip the patty and immediately drape a slice of American cheese over it. Let it cook another 2 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully over the beef, giving it a creamy finish.
Step 6: Finally, assemble your burger. Layer the bottom bun with homemade burger sauce, followed by the cheesy patty, a few pickles, a lettuce leaf, a slice of tomato, and a bit more sauce on the top bun. Serve while hot and enjoy the symphony of flavors.
Nutritional Facts:
Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 24 g
Carbohydrates: 32 g
Total Fats: 24 g
Saturated Fats: 9 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 850 mg
Storage and reheating tips
To store leftovers, wrap each burger individually in foil and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, preheat your oven to 350°F and warm the burgers for about 10 minutes. This will help retain the crispness of the patty, though for optimal enjoyment, fresh is always best!
Serving suggestions
These Smash Burgers pair perfectly with a side of crispy French fries or sweet potato wedges. For a refreshingly cool contrast, consider serving it with a crisp coleslaw or a zesty pickled cucumber salad. For drinks, a cold lemonade or craft beer would complement the rich flavors beautifully.
Reader tips or helpful notes
Don’t press down too hard when smashing the burger — just enough to spread it out. This technique lets the edges caramelize without squeezing out all the precious juices. Additionally, ensure your skillet is hot before adding the meat; the heat is crucial for developing that delicious crust.
Recipe FAQs
Q: Can I make these burgers without a cast iron skillet?
A: Yes! While a cast iron skillet delivers the best crust, a heavy-bottomed non-stick pan works in a pinch.
Q: Do I need to season the meat with anything besides salt and pepper?
A: The simplicity of salt and pepper tends to be enough, letting the beef’s natural flavors shine. Feel free to experiment with garlic powder or smoked paprika for a variation.
Q: Can I freeze the uncooked patties?
A: Absolutely. Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once solid. Thaw in the fridge before cooking.
Q: Is it necessary to use American cheese?
A: While its meltability and flavor suit smash burgers perfectly, other cheeses like cheddar or Swiss can be substituted for a different taste profile.
Q: How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative and substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative for toasting the buns.
