The Smash Burger

The sizzle of beef on a hot griddle transforms an ordinary day into a mouth-watering experience. The Smash Burger is a recipe that combines simplicity and flavor in a short amount of time, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. Its technique of smashing the patties creates irresistibly crispy edges that bring out the rich flavor of the beef.

This recipe is perfect for burger lovers who appreciate a hearty, juicy meal without a lot of fuss. It’s great for family cookouts or casual get-togethers with friends. For an easy preparation, the secret sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for later use.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The crispy edges of the smashed burgers provide a delightful texture contrast to the juicy interior.
• It’s quick to prepare, allowing you to serve delicious burgers in under 30 minutes.
• The homemade secret sauce elevates the flavor, transforming the burgers into a gourmet experience.
• The grilling method enhances the beef’s natural flavors while allowing for easy clean-up.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious burger:

For the Burgers

• 2 lbs ground chuck roast (80% lean, 20% fat)
• ½ stick butter (divided in half)
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• 1 tbsp kosher sea salt (divided)
• ½ tbsp coarsely ground pepper (divided)

For the Secret Sauce

• ½ cup mayo
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp mustard
• 1 tbsp pickle relish (either sweet or dill is okay)
• 1 dash onion powder
• 1 dash smoked paprika

For Serving

• 9" cast iron skillet or grill grates flipped to the flat side

Use any type of ground beef for a different flavor.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter sauce.
• Sweet onion for a milder flavor.
• Any type of cheese for topping.

How to Make It

Follow these steps to create your perfect Smash Burger.

Mix secret sauce ingredients

In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle relish, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Mix well and store in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Form burger patties

Very gently, form the ground beef into rough balls—just enough to give them shape without compressing the beef. This technique ensures the burgers stay juicy.

Heat the grill

Preheat your grill to 400 degrees on medium-high direct heat. This helps achieve that perfect sear on your burgers.

Prepare the cooking surface

Place a large cast iron skillet on the grill or use the flat, griddle side of the grill grates. Allow the surface to heat up for a few minutes.

Sauté the onions

Add half of the butter to the skillet and let it melt. Add the chopped onions and cook until they are translucent. Remove the onions from the skillet and set them aside.

Cook the burgers

Add the remaining butter to the skillet. Working in batches, place the burger balls on the skillet and flatten them to about ½-inch thick using a metal spatula. Season with salt and pepper.

Flip the burgers

When the edges begin to form a nice, crispy crust, flip the burgers.

Add cheese and finish cooking

Top each burger with cheese and continue to cook until both sides are nicely browned and crispy. Remove the burgers from the skillet when done.

Assemble the burgers

To assemble, slather the bun with secret sauce, add a patty, and top with the sautéed onions. Optionally, add slices of tomato and pickles if desired.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yes, keep for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Microwave for 30-60 seconds or grill briefly.

Tips for Best Results

• Use fresh ground chuck for the best flavor and juiciness.
• Let the beef come to room temperature before grilling for even cooking.
• Avoid pressing down on the patties while cooking to maintain moisture.
• Cook in batches if necessary to ensure a proper sear.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with homemade fries for a classic diner experience.
• Pair with coleslaw for a refreshing crunch.
• Enjoy with a cold beverage on a summer evening.