why make this recipe
Smash Burgers cook fast and taste rich. You get a thin patty with a crispy brown crust and juicy center. This method uses simple steps and few tools. It is great for quick weeknight meals or a casual cookout.
introduction
Smash Burgers are simple beef burgers pressed thin on a hot pan. The thin patty makes a strong crust and good flavor. You can add cheese and your favorite toppings. This recipe uses basic ingredients and a fast cook time.
how to make Smash Burgers
Heat a heavy skillet or griddle until very hot. Make four balls from the beef and season them. Place each ball on the pan and press down hard with a spatula to make thin patties. Cook a few minutes until a brown crust forms, flip, and finish cooking. Add cheese at the end if you like, toast the buns, and build your burgers with toppings.
Ingredients :
1 pound ground beef, 4 hamburger buns, 4 slices of cheese (optional), Salt and pepper to taste, Butter (for the buns), Condiments and toppings (e.g., lettuce, tomato, pickles, onion)
Directions :
- Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
- Divide the ground beef into four equal portions.
- Form each portion into a ball and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the beef balls onto the hot skillet, then use a spatula to smash them down into thin patties.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes until a crust forms, then flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- If using cheese, place a slice on each patty during the last minute to melt.
- Butter the hamburger buns and toast them in a separate pan until golden brown.
- Assemble by placing the patty on the bun and adding your desired toppings and condiments.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
how to serve Smash Burgers
Serve each patty on a buttered, toasted bun. Add cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles, onion, and your favorite sauce. Serve with fries, a simple salad, or pickles on the side. Eat while hot for the best texture.
how to store Smash Burgers
Cool any leftover patties to room temperature no more than two hours after cooking. Store patties and buns separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to keep some crust. Do not refreeze patties after they have been cooked.
tips to make Smash Burgers
- Use high heat for a good crust.
- Do not overwork the beef when forming balls.
- Press hard and quickly to get thin patties.
- Use a wide metal spatula and a flat press or another pan to smash.
- Toast buns in butter for extra flavor.
- Add cheese at the very end so it melts but does not overcook the meat.
variation (if any)
- Smash cheeseburgers: add a slice of cheese in the last minute.
- Spiced: mix a small pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika into the beef.
- Single large burger: make fewer, bigger balls and adjust cooking time.
- Vegetarian: use a store-bought veggie patty and press lightly on the griddle.
FAQs
Q: Can I use lean beef for smash burgers?
A: Yes, but fattier beef (80/20) gives more flavor and a juicier patty.
Q: Do I need a special tool to smash the burger?
A: No. A sturdy metal spatula or the bottom of another pan works well.
Q: How thin should I smash the patties?
A: Smash until the patty is about 1/4 inch thick or thinner. The goal is a thin patty with a good crust.
Q: Can I cook smash burgers on a grill?
A: A flat top or griddle works best. On a grill, use a cast-iron griddle plate for a similar result.
Q: How do I avoid sticking to the pan?
A: Make sure the pan is very hot and use a small amount of oil or fat. Do not move the patty until a crust forms.
Conclusion
For more tips and a detailed guide on smashing technique, see The Ultimate Smash Cheeseburger Recipe – Burgers.
Smash Burgers
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
- Divide the ground beef into four equal portions.
- Form each portion into a ball and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the beef balls onto the hot skillet, then use a spatula to smash them down into thin patties.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes until a crust forms, then flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- If using cheese, place a slice on each patty during the last minute to melt.
- Butter the hamburger buns and toast them in a separate pan until golden brown.
- Assemble by placing the patty on the bun and adding your desired toppings and condiments.
- Serve hot and enjoy!