Smash Burgers

Smoky, savory, and unbelievably satisfying, the moment you bite into a perfectly grilled smash burger, you’re transported to grilling season bliss. This recipe for smash burgers takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, and the secret lies in the technique: pressing the beef patties ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and flavorful.

This dish is perfect for burger lovers and casual cooks alike. Ideal for summertime barbecues or weeknight dinners, these burgers are always a hit. You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a quick assembly later on.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Each patty develops a delightful crust for a satisfying crunch.
• The sauce combines creamy, tangy, and savory flavors in every bite.
• Cooking in a cast-iron pan guarantees even heat and perfect cooking.
• It’s quick to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious smash burgers.

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/3 cup ketchup
• 3 tablespoons yellow mustard
• 1/4 cup chopped pickles
• 1/4 cup chopped onions

For the Burgers

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef
• Salt & pepper
• 8 slices American cheese
• 8 toasted hamburger buns, preferably brioche

Use any cheese variety you prefer.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option
• Ground beef can be swapped for turkey or chicken
• Brioche buns can be replaced with whole wheat or gluten-free buns
• American cheese can be replaced with cheddar or Swiss

How to Make It

Create mouthwatering smash burgers in just a few easy steps.

Combine sauce ingredients

In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients. Set aside.

Prepare beef balls

Divide the ground beef into 8 balls. Prepare a piece of parchment paper (about 8×8 inches).

Heat the pan

Heat a cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until hot. Grease with a tiny bit of oil.

Smash the patties

Place a beef ball in the pan, cover with the parchment, and press it down with a burger press or spatula until flat. Cook for 1-2 minutes undisturbed, then flip the patty.

Season and cheese

Season the cooked patty with salt and pepper and top with a slice of American cheese.

Assemble the burgers

To assemble a burger, spread the sauce on both buns. Add the patty and any other toppings you want. Enjoy!

How to Store It

Fridge: up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, it affects the texture of the meat.
Reheat: in a skillet over low heat for 5-7 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Preheat the pan for even cooking and a better crust.
• Use a burger press for uniform thickness and even cooking.
• Let the patties rest for a minute after cooking for juicier results.
• Customize toppings to include your favorites for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crispy fries or onion rings for a classic combo.
• Pair with a refreshing coleslaw on the side.
• Enjoy with a chilled beer or soda for the ultimate meal.