Smash Burgers Recipe

Portion beef

Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz / 115 g each). Roll each portion loosely into a ball; do not overwork the meat.

Preheat skillet

Heat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy griddle over medium-high heat until smoking hot, about 5 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon neutral oil and spread to coat the surface.

Smash patties

Place a beef ball on the hot surface. Using a heavy spatula or a flat metal press (or place a piece of parchment and a second skillet on top), smash each ball flat until the patty is about 1/4 inch (6 mm) thick and the edges are ragged. Work in batches if necessary; leave at least 1 inch between patties.

Season and sear

Immediately season the freshly smashed top of each patty with about 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt and a light dusting of black pepper. Cook undisturbed until deep brown crust forms at the edges, about 2 minutes.

Flip and cheese

Scrape under the patty and flip. Immediately place an American cheese slice on each patty. Cook the second side for 45–60 seconds, pressing gently to ensure cheese melts and patty finishes cooking (internal temp ~160°F / 71°C). Remove patties to a warm plate.

Repeat

Repeat smashing, seasoning, searing, and flipping for remaining patties, adding more oil to the skillet as needed.

While finishing the patties, split the buns and spread softened butter on cut sides. Toast buns cut-side down in a separate skillet or on the griddle over medium heat until golden and slightly crisp, about 1–2 minutes. Keep warm.

Prepare toppings: thinly slice onion and tomato, shred lettuce, and have pickle slices ready. Place two cooked cheeseburger patties on each bottom bun (smash-burgers are often served as a double); top with 2–3 pickle slices, a small handful of shredded lettuce, a few rings of onion, and a tomato slice if using.

Make the special sauce: in a small bowl combine mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish, paprika, garlic powder, and salt. Stir until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning. Spread about 1 tablespoon of sauce on each bun top (or to taste).

Assembly: spread sauce on toasted bun tops, place the topped bottom bun (with two patties and toppings) on the plate, crown with the top bun, and serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Estimated servings: yields 4 smash burgers (as doubles) or 8 single patties depending on assembly.