The Best Smash Burger Recipe

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Update : April 4, 2026

Delicious homemade smash burger with toppings on a grill plate

Why Make This Recipe

Smash burgers are a beloved favorite for their juicy, flavorful patties and crispy edges. This recipe is simple and quick, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue. By smashing the patties, you create a delicious crust that seals in all the juices. Plus, you can customize toppings to fit any taste!

How to Make The Best Smash Burger

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz (340g) ground beef (80/20)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1-2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon mustard
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • Brioche buns
  • 2 slices cheddar cheese
  • Pickles
  • Lettuce, thinly sliced
  • Onion, thinly sliced
  • Tomato slices

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Meat: Divide the ground meat into 3 oz (85g) portions. Roll each portion into balls. Place each ball between 2 pieces of parchment paper.
  2. Flatten the Patties: Use the flat side of a mallet to gently flatten the balls into thin rounds.
  3. Make the Sauce: Combine mayonnaise, sour cream, ketchup, mustard, and black pepper in a bowl. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.
  4. Cook the Patties: Heat a cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Season one side of the meat with salt and black pepper. Place the seasoned side down onto the hot pan and season the other side with salt and pepper.
  5. Cook: Cook for 1-2 minutes and then flip the patties. Cook for another 30 seconds to a minute. Top one patty with cheese, place the second one on top, and remove from the pan.
  6. Assemble the Burgers: Toast the buns on the grill for about 30 seconds. Place a spoonful of sauce on the bottom bun. Add lettuce, tomato, and onion, then stack the double patties on top. Place pickles over the patties, add more sauce, and finish with the top bun. Serve fresh and enjoy!

Kali Orexi!

How to Serve The Best Smash Burger

Serve the smash burgers hot off the grill with your favorite sides. French fries, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad make great accompaniments. Make sure to have extra sauce and toppings available so everyone can customize their own burger!

How to Store The Best Smash Burger

If you have leftovers, store the cooked patties and toppings separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They will last for up to 3 days. Reheat patties in a skillet or microwave before serving again.

Tips to Make The Best Smash Burger

  • Use a high-fat content ground beef, like 80/20, for the juiciest burger.
  • Make sure your skillet or griddle is hot enough for a good sear.
  • Don’t press down on the patties while cooking; let them cook evenly for the best texture.
  • Experiment with your favorite toppings and sauces to create your perfect burger!

Variation

You can switch up the cheese type or add additional toppings like avocado, bacon alternatives, or different sauces for unique flavors.

FAQs

1. Can I use leaner beef for this recipe?
While you can use leaner beef, it may not be as juicy as an 80/20 blend. Higher fat content helps keep the burgers moist.

2. How do I know when the burgers are done?
The burgers are finished when they are browned on the outside and have an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to use it!

Print
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Best Smash Burger


  • Author: jena
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: None

Description

Juicy smash burgers with crispy edges and customizable toppings, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend barbecue.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz (340g) ground beef (80/20)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 12 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon mustard
  • Brioche buns
  • 2 slices cheddar cheese
  • Pickles
  • Lettuce, thinly sliced
  • Onion, thinly sliced
  • Tomato slices

Instructions

  1. Prepare the meat: Divide the ground meat into 3 oz (85g) portions and roll them into balls. Place each ball between 2 pieces of parchment paper.
  2. Flatten the patties: Use the flat side of a mallet to gently flatten the balls into thin rounds.
  3. Make the sauce: Combine mayonnaise, sour cream, ketchup, mustard, and black pepper in a bowl. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.
  4. Cook the patties: Heat a cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Season one side with salt and black pepper. Place the seasoned side down onto the hot pan and season the other side.
  5. Cook for 1-2 minutes then flip. Cook for another 30 seconds to a minute. Top one patty with cheese, place the second on top, and remove from pan.
  6. Assemble the burgers: Toast the buns on the grill for about 30 seconds. Place a spoonful of sauce on the bottom bun. Add lettuce, tomato, and onion, then stack the double patties. Place pickles over the patties, add more sauce, and finish with the top bun.

Notes

Store leftovers separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat patties in a skillet or microwave before serving.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 burger
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: smash burger, quick dinner, grilling, weeknight meal

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