Juicy smash burgers with crispy edges, melted cheese, and a flavorful secret sauce.
Author:Oliver
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:10 minutes
Total Time:25 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Main Dish
Method:Grilling/Pan-Frying
Cuisine:American
Diet:None
Ingredients
Scale
1 1/2 lbs ground beef (80/20 chuck)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
4 slices American cheese
4 brioche burger buns, toasted
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
1 tablespoon finely diced pickles
1 teaspoon white vinegar
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Lettuce, tomato, and onion for serving (optional)
Instructions
Divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions. Form them loosely into balls; do not compact them.
Prepare the secret sauce by combining mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickles, white vinegar, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl. Mix well and set aside.
Heat a cast iron skillet or griddle over high heat until very hot.
Place two beef balls on the hot skillet. Immediately place a piece of parchment paper over each ball and use a sturdy spatula or burger press to smash them down into thin patties, about 1/4-inch thick. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the edges are crispy and browned.
Flip the patties, remove the parchment paper, and immediately place a slice of cheese on one of the patties. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the patties are cooked through.
Transfer the cheeseburger patty to a toasted bun. Top with the second patty. Repeat with the remaining beef.
Spread a generous amount of secret sauce on the top bun. Add lettuce, tomato, and onion if desired.
Serve immediately.
Notes
Use ground beef with a higher fat content for a juicier burger.
Do not overwork the meat when forming the balls; this keeps the patties tender.
A heavy-duty spatula or burger press is essential for a good smash.
Toast the buns for a better texture and to prevent them from getting soggy.
Adjust the secret sauce ingredients to your preference.