Best Smash Burger
This savory smash burger recipe features juicy beef patties, melted cheese, and fresh toppings sandwiched between toasted buns, perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds Ground Beef (80/20) The ideal blend of meat and fat ensures a juicy, flavorful burger.
- 3 Tablespoons Butter (divided) Used for toasting the buns and cooking the beef.
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Salt Elevates the beef’s natural flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon Pepper Adds a bit of heat.
- 4 slices Cheddar Cheese Provides a creamy, melty layer.
- 4 pieces Hamburger Buns Soft and toasty, ideal for holding up the burger and toppings.
- 4 pieces Leaf Lettuce Adds crunch to the burger.
- 1 Tomato (sliced) Juicy and sweet, balances the richness of meat.
- 1/2 Red Onion (peeled and sliced) Provides sharpness and contrast.
Instructions
Preparation
- Divide the ground beef into 8 balls weighing approximately 3 ounces each. Refrigerate the beef balls.
- Preheat a griddle over medium-high heat, aiming for approximately 400°F.
- Melt 1 tablespoon of butter on the griddle, then toast the buns cut side down for 2 minutes.
Cooking
- Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the griddle. Place 4 beef balls on the hot griddle, cover with parchment paper, and press down to flatten into patties.
- Sprinkle garlic salt and pepper over the patties.
- Cook for about 2 minutes until juices rise and color changes.
- Flip the patties carefully and cook for another minute before adding cheese to two of the patties.
- Stack the cheesy patties on top of the non-cheese patties.
Assembly
- Assemble your burger with lettuce, tomato, and the stacked patties on the bottom bun. Top with the other half of the bun.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding spices like smoked paprika or cumin to the beef. To achieve a crispy exterior, cook the patties longer. Experiment with different cheeses as well.