Smash Burger is a deliciously juicy burger that is made by smashing a ball of ground beef onto a hot griddle or skillet, creating a crispy, caramelized crust. This method enhances the flavor and texture, making it a favorite for burger lovers.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 4 slices of cheese (American, cheddar, or your choice)
• 4 burger buns (preferably brioche or sesame)
• Toppings (as desired):
• Lettuce
• Tomato (sliced)
• Pickles
• Onion (sliced)
• Ketchup
• Mustard
• Mayo

Timing

Making Smash Burgers takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 15 minutes for cooking.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. Divide Beef: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 ounces each). Gently form them into loose balls; do not compact them too tightly.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

1. Preheat Skillet: Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until very hot. You can add a little oil to the skillet to prevent sticking if desired.

Step 3: Cook the Burgers

1. Smash the Patties: Place the beef balls onto the hot skillet. Using a sturdy spatula or a burger press, smash each ball down firmly to about 1/2 inch thick. Hold for a few seconds to ensure a good sear.
2. Season: Immediately season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook: Allow the patties to cook for about 2-3 minutes without moving them until the edges are brown and crispy.
4. Flip and Add Cheese: Carefully flip the patties and add a slice of cheese on top of each one. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the burger is cooked to your desired doneness.

Step 4: Toast the Buns

1. Toast Buns: While the burgers are cooking, cut the burger buns in half and toast them on the skillet until golden brown.

Step 5: Assemble the Burgers

1. Build the Burger: Place the cooked patties on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Add your desired toppings and condiments, then place the top half of the bun on each burger.

Step 6: Serve

1. Enjoy: Serve the smash burgers hot with your favorite sides, like fries or a salad.

Step 7: Dig In

1. Savor the Flavor: Enjoy your delicious smash burgers as a satisfying meal!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Smash Burgers (per burger, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	400
Protein	25g
Fat	30g
Carbohydrates	30g
Fiber	1g
Sugar	2g

Tips for Customization

• Flavor Variations: Experiment with different cheeses, such as pepper jack or blue cheese, for added flavor.
• Toppings: Customize with additional toppings like avocado, bacon, or jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.
• Sauces: Create a special sauce by mixing mayo with ketchup and a dash of hot sauce for a tasty burger spread.

Conclusion

Smash Burgers are a quick and delicious way to enjoy a classic burger with an incredible crispy crust and juicy interior. Perfect for cookouts or weeknight dinners, this recipe is sure to please any burger lover! Enjoy this delightful recipe!