introduction
Smash Burgers are thin, crispy burgers made by pressing ground beef on a hot surface. They cook fast and get a deep brown crust. You get a lot of flavor from simple steps.
why make this recipe
This recipe is fast and easy. You need few ingredients and little skill. The smashed patty gives a crisp edge and juicy center. It is great for weeknights, cookouts, or any time you want a tasty burger fast.
how to make Smash Burgers
Make small balls of beef. Heat a griddle or heavy pan until very hot. Place a ball on the surface and press it flat with a spatula. Season, cook until a crust forms, flip, and finish. Add cheese in the last minute if you want. Toast the buns in butter. Stack the burger and toppings and serve.
Ingredients :
- Ground beef (80/20 mix)
- Salt
- Pepper
- Butter
- Burger buns
- Cheese (optional)
- Toppings (lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, etc.)
Directions :
- Preheat a griddle or large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Form the ground beef into balls (about 4-6 ounces each).
- Place the beef balls on the hot surface and smash them down with a spatula to create a flat patty.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes until a crust forms, then flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- If using cheese, add it on top of the patty during the last minute of cooking.
- Toast the buttered buns on the griddle.
- Assemble burgers by placing the patty on the bun and adding desired toppings.
how to serve Smash Burgers
Serve hot on a toasted bun. Add lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and sauce if you like. Serve with fries, chips, or a simple salad. Eat immediately for best texture.
how to store Smash Burgers
Cool cooked patties to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep buns separate so they stay fresh. Reheat patties on a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side or in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warm. Do not store burgers with fresh toppings; add those when you reheat and serve.
tips to make Smash Burgers
- Use 80/20 beef for good flavor and juiciness.
- Do not overwork the meat; form loose balls only.
- Get the pan very hot before smashing for a good crust.
- Use a thin, sturdy spatula and press firmly once, then leave to cook.
- Salt just before or right after smashing to avoid drying the meat.
- Press down with a weight or another spatula wrapped in foil for a very flat patty.
variation (if any)
- Cheese Smash: add American or cheddar cheese during the last minute.
- Spicy Smash: mix a little hot sauce into the beef or add sliced jalapeños.
- Mushroom & Swiss: top with sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese.
- Double Smash: use two thin patties for a thicker stack of flavor.
FAQs
Q: What is a smash burger?
A: A smash burger is a thin patty made by pressing a ball of ground beef onto a hot surface to make a crispy crust.
Q: Why use 80/20 beef?
A: 80/20 has fat that keeps the burger juicy and helps form a good crust when smashed.
Q: Can I make patties ahead of time?
A: You can form balls ahead and keep them in the fridge for a few hours. Do not smash them until the pan is hot and you are ready to cook.
Q: How long do they take to cook?
A: About 3-5 minutes total per patty: 2-3 minutes first side, 1-2 minutes after flipping.
Q: Do I need oil in the pan?
A: A hot, dry griddle often works because the beef fat renders quickly. You can add a small amount of oil if your pan sticks.
Conclusion
If you want more technique and a step-by-step take on the classic smashed cheeseburger, see this detailed guide: The Ultimate Smash Cheeseburger Recipe – Burgers.
Smash Burgers
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat a griddle or large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Form the ground beef into balls of about 4-6 ounces each.
- Place the beef balls on the hot surface and smash them down with a spatula to create a flat patty.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes until a crust forms, then flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- If using cheese, add it on top of the patty during the last minute of cooking.
- Toast the buttered buns on the griddle.
- Assemble burgers by placing the patty on the bun and adding desired toppings.