Beyond Meat Smash Burger Recipe

Prepare patties

If patties are frozen, thaw slightly until pliable but still cold. Divide each Beyond Burger into two even portions if using whole patties (this recipe assumes 2 finished smash patties). Lightly shape each portion into a loose ball about 3 inches in diameter; do not compress. Season one side of each ball with a light sprinkle of salt and black pepper.

Heat griddle or skillet

Preheat a heavy cast-iron skillet or flat griddle over medium-high heat until smoking hot, about 4–6 minutes. Add neutral oil and swirl to coat a 10–12 inch surface. Allow oil to heat until shimmering.

Smash and sear

Place one seasoned side of a meat ball onto the hot surface, seasoned side down. Immediately press down firmly with a heavy metal spatula or a second flat pan (use a folded piece of parchment or foil between meat and press if desired) to flatten the ball to roughly 1/4-inch thickness. Hold pressure for 10–15 seconds to form a thin patty with good contact. Repeat for remaining balls, leaving a little space between patties. Sprinkle the exposed top sides with the remaining salt and pepper.

Cook and flip

Cook the patties without moving them for 2–2.5 minutes until the edges are deeply browned and crispy. Use a thin metal spatula to scrape under and flip each patty. Immediately top each patty with a slice of American (or vegan) cheese. Cook an additional 45–60 seconds until cheese softens and the second side is browned but not overcooked.

Butter toast buns

While patties finish, melt unsalted butter in a small pan over medium heat. Split buns and toast cut sides in the butter until golden brown, about 30–60 seconds. Remove buns and keep warm.

Prepare sauce

In a small bowl combine mayonnaise, yellow mustard, and ketchup. Stir until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning or proportions to preference.

Assemble burgers

Spread about 1 tablespoon of sauce on the bottom of each toasted bun. Place shredded lettuce on the sauce, then set the cheese-topped smash patty on the lettuce. Add 3 pickle slices and a few rings of thinly sliced red onion on top of the patty. Spread remaining sauce on the top bun and place on burger. If using optional tomato, jalapeños, or smoked paprika, add tomato slice and jalapeños before placing top bun; sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika over the patty for a smoky note.

Rest and serve

Let assembled burger rest 1 minute to allow juices and cheese to settle. Serve immediately with fries or your preferred sides.

Use tomato slices, pickled jalapeños, or smoked paprika as desired during assembly. Add these items before the top bun to keep them secure. Adjust quantities to taste.