Name: Wayward Bar & Kitchens DOUBLE WAYWARD SMASH PATTY Recipe
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb 80/20 ground beef (chilled); 1 tsp Salt; 0.5 tsp Black pepper (freshly ground); 2 tbs Vegetable oil (for griddle); 2 each Soft hamburger buns (sesame or plain), split; 2 each American cheese slices; 1 tbs Butter (softened, for toasting); 0.5 each Yellow onion; 0.25 tsp Salt; 1 cup Shredded iceberg lettuce; 4 slices Pickles (optional); 2 tbs Ketchup; 1 tsp Yellow mustard

Method

Prep

Divide the chilled ground beef into four equal loose portions (about 4 oz / 110 g each). Do not overwork; form loosely into balls and keep chilled until ready to cook.

Peel and very thinly slice the half yellow onion into rings. Toss onion slices with 1/4 tsp salt and let sit while you assemble other ingredients (this draws out a little moisture and softens flavor).

Wash and finely shred the iceberg lettuce. Set shredded lettuce in a small bowl and keep chilled.

Split buns and spread softened butter on the cut sides.

Cook Patties

Heat griddle

Heat a heavy skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until very hot (about 400°F / 200°C surface). Add 1–2 tablespoons vegetable oil and spread to coat surface.

Smash

Place two beef balls on the hot surface (you will make two thin patties per burger; do two at once). Using a sturdy spatula or a flat stainless steel press lined with parchment or a second spatula, press each ball flat immediately to a very thin patty (about 1/8 inch / 3 mm). Hold pressure for 10–15 seconds to get good contact.

Season & cook

Sprinkle each patty lightly with salt and pepper. Cook undisturbed for 1.5–2 minutes until edges are brown and crispy.

Flip & cheese

Flip each patty and immediately place a slice of American cheese on top of each patty. Cook another 30–45 seconds until cheese melts and patties are cooked through. Work in batches so you end with four thin patties (two per finished sandwich).

Toast Buns

While patties finish or immediately after removing them, place buttered cut side down on the hot griddle. Toast until golden brown, about 30–60 seconds. Remove and keep warm.

Assemble - Double Wayward Smash Patty

On the bottom bun spread 1 tablespoon ketchup and 1/2 teaspoon mustard (adjust to taste).

Place two cheese-topped smash patties on the bottom bun, stacking them slightly overlapping so the cheese melts between layers.

Top the patties with a generous handful (about 1/2 cup) of shredded iceberg lettuce.

Scatter a few salted thin onion slices evenly over the lettuce.

Add pickles if using, then cover with the toasted top bun.

Press gently, cut in half if desired, and serve immediately while hot.

Double Wayward Smash Patty Recipe