Jul 14 2026
Restaurants›Blue Dog Tavern›Smash Burger Recipe

Smash Burger Recipe

Inspired by Blue Dog Tavern
Time35m
Serves2

split patty, American cheese, grilled onion, smash sauce

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Ingredients

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Burger Ingredients

Onion Topping

Smash Sauce

Burger Assembly

Method

Burger Preparation

  1. 1

    Make the Smash Sauce

    In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and pickle relish. Mix well and set aside.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Beef

    Divide the ground beef into two equal portions (about 8 ounces each). Form them into loose balls, being careful not to overwork the meat.

Onion Preparation

  1. 3

    Cook the Onions

    Slice the yellow onion thinly. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and caramelized, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Cooking the Burgers

  1. 4

    Sear the Burgers

    Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over high heat. Once hot, place one beef ball in the skillet. Using a heavy spatula or burger press, smash the ball down to form a patty about 1/2 inch thick. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until a crust forms.

  2. 5

    Add Cheese

    Flip the patty and immediately place a slice of American cheese on top. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the second side is browned. Repeat with the second beef ball.

Assembling the Burger

  1. 6

    Build the Burger

    On the bottom half of each burger bun, place a leaf of lettuce and a slice of tomato. Add the cooked smash burger patty with melted cheese on top. Spoon the caramelized onions over the cheese and drizzle with the smash sauce. Top with the other half of the bun.

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