For me, the magic of smash burgers takes me back to summer evenings spent at my grandmother’s house, where the kitchen was always filled with the warmth of family and the mouthwatering aroma of home-cooked meals.
My grandmother, a woman of few words but immense culinary talent, had a way of making even the most ordinary meals extraordinary. Her smash burgers were a family favorite, and I can still recall the anticipation that built as we watched her skillfully transform simple ingredients into something spectacular.
She didn’t fuss over the food; everything was straightforward, yet every bite was packed with flavor. The secret, she always said, was in the sear. She would press those patties down on the hot skillet with a satisfying sizzle, ensuring a crust so crispy and flavorful that it almost stole the show. But the magic didn’t stop there. She had a way with sauces, too—a simple blend of mayonnaise, ketchup, and a few special touches that elevated the burger to something unforgettable.
When I make smash burgers today, I’m transported back to those moments in her kitchen. It’s a recipe that’s become a staple in my household, especially on busy weeknights when I crave something quick yet indulgent. What I love most about smash burgers is their versatility. Whether you stick to classic toppings like lettuce, tomato, and onion or get creative with additions like spicy pickles or smoky cheese, there’s room to make each burger your own.
But what truly sets this recipe apart is the joy of cooking it. There’s a certain satisfaction in watching the patties transform from a simple ball of ground beef into a beautifully seared, juicy burger. And when you bite into that crispy crust, with the creamy, tangy sauce balancing out the rich beefiness, you’ll understand why this humble dish has stood the test of time in my family.
So, whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself, this smash burger recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. It’s quick, it’s easy, and most importantly, it’s delicious—a true testament to the idea that sometimes, the simplest meals are the most memorable.
Making Smash Burgers
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Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (80-85% lean)
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon sweet relish
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon oil (avocado, canola, vegetable, or olive oil)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon salted butter
- 4 burger buns
- Cheese slices (optional)
- Toppings: Lettuce, tomato slices, onion slices, pickle chips, or any preferred toppings
Directions
Prepare the Sauce: In a small mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet relish, and smoked paprika. Stir until well-mixed. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use the sauce for the burgers.
Form the Patties: Divide the ground beef into four equal portions, roughly 4 oz each. Gently shape each portion into a loose ball, being careful not to overhandle the meat to keep it tender.
Season and Chill: Lightly season the beef balls with salt and pepper. Arrange them on a plate lined with wax paper, and keep them cold in the refrigerator or freezer while you prepare your cooking surface.
Heat the Pan: Preheat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add a teaspoon of oil and spread it evenly across the pan with a paper towel. Wait until the oil starts to smoke slightly.
Smash the Patties: Place one beef ball into the heated skillet. Immediately press down on it with a spatula or burger press, flattening it into a thin patty. You can use parchment paper to prevent sticking if necessary.
Cook the Burgers: Allow the patty to cook undisturbed for about a minute until a crust forms on the bottom. Avoid pressing down on the burger again to keep it juicy. Season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
Flip the Patty: Carefully flip the patty, preserving the crust. If desired, add a cheese slice on top. Cook for an additional 45 seconds or until the patty is cooked to your preference. Transfer to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
Toast the Buns: Turn off the heat and add butter to the skillet. Once melted, place the buns cut-side down in the pan to toast them lightly.
Assemble the Burgers: Spread the prepared sauce on the toasted buns, add the cooked patties, and top with your favorite toppings. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious smash burgers!
Storing Suggestion
Store leftover cooked burger patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. The sauce can be kept in the fridge for up to a week.
Cooking Tips
For an extra crispy crust on your burgers, press down firmly with the spatula when flattening the patties. If you like your burgers with a bit more flavor, try mixing minced garlic or onion powder into the ground beef before forming the patties.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these smash burgers with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad. For a gourmet touch, add caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or a fried egg on top of the burger.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you’re out of ground beef, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute. For a vegetarian option, use plant-based ground meat. You can also swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce.
Seasonal Variations
In summer, add fresh avocado slices and grilled corn to your burgers for a seasonal twist. In winter, serve with a warm, spiced apple compote or a side of roasted root vegetables.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and eggs (mayonnaise). To make it dairy-free, omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. For an egg-free version, replace the mayonnaise with a vegan option.
FAQ:
Can I use a different type of meat for these burgers?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative.
How can I make these burgers healthier?
Opt for leaner ground meat and use whole-grain buns. You can also add more vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado for a nutrient boost.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover burgers?
Reheat the patties in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. Toast the buns separately to keep them from getting soggy.
Can I freeze the uncooked patties?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked patties. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
What toppings go well with smash burgers?
Classic toppings include lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and pickles. You can also try adding bacon, avocado, or a fried egg for extra flavor.
Can I make the sauce in advance?
Yes, the sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Smash Burgers
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef 80-85% lean
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon sweet relish
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon oil avocado, canola, vegetable, or olive oil
- Salt and pepper as needed
- 1 tablespoon salted butter
- 4 burger buns
- Cheese slices optional
- Toppings: Lettuce tomato slices, onion slices, pickle chips, or any preferred toppings
Instructions
For the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, and smoked paprika until well-blended. Cover the sauce and refrigerate it until you're ready to assemble the burgers.
For the Burgers:
- Shape the patties: Divide the ground beef into four equal portions, about 4 oz each. Gently form each portion into a round ball, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Season and chill: Sprinkle salt and pepper over the meatballs, then place them on a plate lined with wax paper. Keep the meatballs cold in the fridge or freezer while you prepare the cooking pan.
- Prepare the pan: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add a teaspoon of oil and spread it evenly across the surface with a paper towel. Heat until the pan begins to smoke.
- Smash the burgers: Place one meatball onto the hot pan. Immediately use a spatula or burger press to press down on the meatball, flattening it into a thin patty. If necessary, use a piece of parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Cook: Let the burger cook for about a minute until a crust forms. Resist the urge to press down again or flip too early. Season with more salt and pepper as it cooks.
- Flip the burger: Carefully scrape underneath the patty to flip it, ensuring you keep the crust intact. If you're using cheese, add a slice now. Cook for another 45 seconds or until done. Transfer the burgers to a plate and cover with foil.
- Toast the buns: Add butter to the pan and let it melt. Turn off the heat, then place the cut sides of the buns onto the pan to toast them lightly.
- Assemble & enjoy: Spread the prepared sauce onto the toasted buns, add the burgers, and top with your favorite toppings. Serve immediately.
