If you’ve ever wondered why restaurant burgers have that irresistible crispy crust and juicy center, the secret is a smash burger. Instead of shaping a thick patty, the beef is pressed onto a hot griddle or skillet, creating caramelized edges packed with flavor while keeping the inside tender and juicy. The best part? You only need a few simple ingredients and about 20 minutes to make restaurant-quality smash burgers at home.
Whether you’re planning a weekend cookout, a family dinner, or simply craving a classic cheeseburger, this smash burger recipe delivers perfectly crispy edges, melted cheese, and a soft toasted bun every single time.
Why You’ll Love This Smash Burger Recipe
- Ready in just 20 minutes
- Crispy edges with juicy centers
- Uses simple pantry ingredients
- Better than fast food
- Perfect for weeknight dinners
- Easy to customize with your favorite toppings
Ingredients
For the Burgers
- 1 pound (450g) 80/20 ground beef
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 soft brioche burger buns
- 2 tablespoons butter
For the Burger Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon pickle relish
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
For the Toppings
- Sliced dill pickles
- Thinly sliced onions
- Shredded lettuce
- Tomato slices (optional)
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Cast iron skillet or flat-top griddle
- Metal spatula
- Burger press or sturdy spatula
- Mixing bowl
- Small bowl for sauce
How to Make Smash Burgers
Step 1: Make the Burger Sauce
- Combine mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle relish, garlic powder, and paprika in a small bowl.
- Stir until smooth.
- Refrigerate while preparing the burgers.
Step 2: Divide the Beef
- Divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions.
- Roll each portion into a loose ball.
- Do not season yet.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet
- Heat a cast iron skillet over high heat for 5 minutes.
- The pan should be extremely hot before cooking.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
- Butter the inside of each bun.
- Toast them until golden brown.
- Set aside.
Step 5: Smash the Patties
- Place two beef balls onto the hot skillet.
- Immediately press each ball firmly with a burger press or sturdy spatula until about ¼ inch thick.
- Hold pressure for 10 seconds.
- Season with salt and pepper.
Step 6: Cook the First Side
- Cook without moving the patties for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Let the edges become dark brown and crispy.
Step 7: Flip and Add Cheese
- Scrape underneath each patty with a metal spatula.
- Flip carefully.
- Add a slice of American cheese to each patty.
- Cook for another 30 to 60 seconds.
Step 8: Stack the Patties
- Place one cheesy patty on top of another to create a double smash burger.
Step 9: Assemble the Burgers
- Spread burger sauce on both toasted buns.
- Add lettuce.
- Place the double cheeseburger on the bun.
- Top with onions, pickles, and tomatoes if desired.
- Cover with the top bun.
- Serve immediately.
What to Serve with Smash Burgers
- Crispy French fries
- Sweet potato fries
- Onion rings
- Coleslaw
- Potato salad
- Mac and cheese
- Grilled corn
- Pickle spears
