Smash-grilled Goodness Recipe

Portion beef

Divide the 1 lb ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Gently form each portion into loose balls—do not overwork or compress. Lightly season the outside of each ball with a pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Preheat griddle or skillet

Heat a large cast-iron griddle or heavy skillet over medium-high heat until very hot (about 5 minutes). Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and spread to coat. The surface should shimmer but not smoke heavily.

Smash the patties

Place two beef balls on the hot surface (do not overcrowd). Using a sturdy spatula or a metal burger press lined with parchment, press each ball flat immediately into a thin patty (about 1/4 inch thick). Hold pressure for 10–15 seconds to ensure good contact and maximum browning.

Cook and flip

Cook the smashed patties without moving for 2–3 minutes until the edges are deeply browned and crisp. Sprinkle a light pinch of salt and pepper on the exposed top. Flip each patty and immediately add a slice of American cheese. Cook another 30–45 seconds until cheese melts and second side is cooked through. Repeat with remaining balls (work in batches).

While patties cook, butter the cut faces of the buns with softened butter. When the last batch of patties is nearly done, place buttered buns cut-side down on the griddle for 30–60 seconds until golden and lightly crisp. Remove and keep warm.

Make the sauce: in a small bowl combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon ketchup, 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish, 1/2 teaspoon apple cider vinegar, 1/4 teaspoon paprika, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper and 1/8 teaspoon salt. Stir until smooth and taste-adjust if desired. Refrigerate until ready to assemble.

Build the burgers: spread about 1 tablespoon of sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a cheese-topped smashed patty on top. Add 2 pickle slices, a small handful (about 1/4 cup) shredded iceberg, a few thin tomato slices, and a scattering of thinly sliced onion (adjust to taste). Top with the bun crown coated with a little sauce if desired.

Serve

Serve the smash-grilled burgers hot with fries or a side of your choice. Enjoy while patties are still crisp.