Gametime Smash Burger Recipe

Prepare blended beef

In a large bowl, combine 1 lb ground Angus beef, finely chopped cooked bacon (4 slices), shredded sharp cheddar (1 cup), kosher salt (1 tsp) and freshly ground black pepper (1 tsp). Gently mix until just combined — do not overwork the meat to keep patties tender. Divide mixture into four 4-oz portions for four thin smash patties (or two 8-oz portions for double-thicker patties).

Preheat griddle/skillet

Heat a large cast-iron skillet or flat-top griddle over medium-high to high heat until very hot (about 5 minutes). Add 2 tbs oil and swirl to coat. The surface should be shimmering and nearly smoking for a proper smash crust.

Smash technique & cook

Place one ball of meat on the hot surface. Using a heavy spatula or a dedicated burger press, smash the ball immediately and firmly to about 1/4" thickness. Season the exposed top with a light pinch of salt and pepper. Cook without moving for 2–3 minutes until deep brown crust forms. Flip, immediately place an American cheese slice on the hot patty, and cook 30–60 seconds more until cheese melts and internal temperature reaches about 155°F (for medium). Repeat with remaining patties. If making double patties per sandwich, stack two cheese-topped patties per bun.

While patties cook, melt 1 tbs butter with 1 tsp olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-low heat. Add thinly sliced large yellow onion and stir to coat. Sprinkle 1 tsp brown sugar (optional), 1 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper over onions. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until onions are deep golden brown and sweet, about 20–25 minutes. If they begin to dry out, add a tablespoon of water to deglaze. Remove from heat and keep warm.

Make the smash sauce: In a small bowl combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tbs yellow mustard, 1 tbs ketchup, 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp garlic powder and 1/4 tsp hot sauce (optional). Stir until smooth and refrigerate until ready to assemble.

Prepare pickles and extra cheese: Thinly slice dill pickles (6 slices) if not pre-sliced and set out 2 unused American cheese slices per sandwich if you prefer double cheese or for extra melt.

Toast buns: In a clean skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tbs butter and place buns cut-side down. Toast until golden-brown, about 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat.

Assemble the Gametime Smash Burger: Spread 1–2 tbs smash sauce on the bottom bun. Place one (or two for a double) cheese-topped bacon & cheddar blended smash patty on the sauce. Top with a generous spoonful of caramelized onions, an additional slice of American cheese if desired, and 3 dill pickle slices. Add a little extra smash sauce on the top bun if desired, then close burger.

Serve immediately while hot with fries or sides of choice. Optional: add an extra patty for $3.99 per patty.