Smash Burgers
These smash burgers are everything you love about a great burger—crispy edges, juicy center, and melty cheese—all in just a few minutes!
With a simple mix of pantry ingredients and a hot skillet, you’ll get a golden crust that packs tons of flavor.
Perfect for when you’re craving something quick, satisfying, and downright delicious.
Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick cooking time: The burgers cook in just a few minutes, making them convenient for busy evenings.
- Big, savory flavor: Ground chuck, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground mustard create a flavorful beef patty.
- Crispy, browned edges: Smashing the patties against a hot skillet helps create the signature crust that makes smash burgers so appealing.
- Melted cheddar cheese: A slice of cheddar on each patty adds a creamy, cheesy finish.
- Easy to customize: Lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise let everyone build a burger to their liking.
- Freezer-friendly preparation: The uncooked patties can be frozen ahead of time, making future burger nights easier to plan.
For Smash Burgers
- Ground Chuck (80% lean) – The star of the burger, providing juicy, flavorful patties.
- Black Pepper – Adds seasoning with a bit of kick.
- Garlic Powder – For depth and a hint of savory flavor.
- Onion Powder – Complements the garlic with more savory goodness.
- Ground Mustard – A little tang to balance out the richness of the beef.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Brings that umami flavor to the mix.
- Kosher Salt – To season the patties and enhance all the flavors.
- Cheddar Cheese – Melted on top for that gooey, comforting texture.
- Hamburger Buns – Soft and lightly toasted for the perfect bite.
For Cooking
- Vegetable Oil – For frying the patties and creating a crispy, golden crust.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Smash Burgers
Step 1: Mix the Seasoned Beef
Start by combining the ground chuck with black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, ground mustard, and Worcestershire sauce in a large bowl. Mix the ingredients thoroughly by hand so the seasonings are distributed throughout the beef.
Try to keep the mixture evenly combined without unnecessarily working it for longer than needed.
Step 2: Shape and Chill the Patties
Divide the seasoned beef into four equal portions, approximately 4½ ounces each. Shape the portions into meatballs, then flatten them gently into patties about 1 inch thick, smoothing the edges as directed.
Cover the patties and refrigerate them for at least 15 minutes or up to 24 hours. This gives you time to prepare other parts of the meal before cooking.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet and Season the Patties
Place a 12-inch cast-iron or nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Turn on the kitchen vent or fan before you begin cooking.
Remove the chilled patties from the refrigerator and season them generously on all sides with kosher salt. Add the vegetable oil to the hot skillet and spread it evenly across the cooking surface.
Step 4: Smash and Cook the Burgers
Place each patty into the skillet and immediately press it firmly with a metal spatula until it reaches approximately ¼-inch thickness. This creates the broad contact with the skillet that gives smash burgers their characteristic browned crust.
Cook the patties for approximately 2 minutes, until the bottoms are browned and crusty. Flip each burger, add a slice of cheddar cheese, and continue cooking for another 2–3 minutes, until the cheese melts and the desired doneness is reached.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Transfer the cooked patties to toasted hamburger buns. Add lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, or your preferred condiments.
Serve the burgers immediately while the beef is hot and the cheddar is melted. Keep your toppings simple or mix and match them to create your favorite cheeseburger combination.
Tips for the Best Smash Burgers
- Use the recommended ground chuck: The 80% lean beef provides a good balance of beef flavor and fat for juicy burgers.
- Mix the seasonings evenly: Combine the beef and seasonings thoroughly so each patty has a consistent flavor.
- Allow time for chilling: Refrigerate the shaped patties for at least 15 minutes, following the recipe instructions.
- Preheat the skillet properly: Start with a skillet heated over medium-high heat so the patties can develop a browned crust.
- Smash immediately: Press the patties firmly as soon as they enter the skillet, rather than waiting until they have already started cooking.
- Use a sturdy metal spatula: A firm spatula makes it easier to flatten the patties against the skillet.
- Serve right away: Assemble the burgers as soon as the patties are cooked for the best combination of hot beef, melted cheese, and soft buns.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Starting with a skillet that isn’t hot enough: A cooler cooking surface may prevent the patties from developing the desired browned crust. Preheat the skillet over medium-high heat before adding the beef.
- Waiting too long to smash the patties: The recipe calls for flattening the patties immediately after placing them in the skillet. Have your metal spatula ready before you begin.
- Using too much or too little pressure: The patties should be pressed firmly until they are approximately ¼ inch thick. Follow the specified thickness rather than leaving them thick or flattening them excessively.
- Forgetting to season before cooking: Add the kosher salt to the patties just before they go into the skillet, as directed.
- Overcrowding the skillet: If the patties do not have enough room for you to handle them comfortably, cook them in batches rather than struggling to smash and flip them.
- Adding the cheese too early: Wait until the patties have been flipped before placing the cheddar on top. This follows the recipe’s cooking sequence and gives the cheese time to melt during the final stage.
- Leaving the burgers to sit too long before serving: Smash burgers are best assembled and served immediately, while the cheese is melted and the patties are hot.
Easy Ways to Change It Up
The original smash burger recipe is simple enough to customize. These optional ideas let you change the toppings or serving style without altering the original recipe.
- Make a classic cheeseburger: Stick with cheddar, lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise for a familiar combination.
- Try a different cheese: Swap the cheddar for American cheese, Swiss, or pepper jack. Each option will change the flavor and melting texture.
- Add extra tang: Use pickles and mustard for a sharper, tangier burger.
- Bring on the heat: Add sliced jalapeños or a spicy condiment if you enjoy a little extra kick.
- Add more crunch: Layer in fresh lettuce and sliced onions for extra texture.
- Make it a double cheeseburger: Use two thinner patties per bun if you want a larger burger. This changes the original four-patty serving arrangement, so cook and assemble accordingly.
- Change the bun: Try potato buns or brioche buns for a different flavor and texture. Keep in mind that softer or sweeter buns will change the overall burger experience.
These variations are optional serving ideas. The original recipe remains unchanged.
How to Serve Smash Burgers
Smash burgers pair well with familiar sides that complement the savory beef and melted cheddar. For an easy, casual meal, try serving them with:
- French fries: A classic side with a crisp exterior and soft center.
- Roasted potatoes: A simple option when you want something hearty alongside the burgers.
- Coleslaw: Its fresh, crunchy texture provides a nice contrast to the rich beef and cheese.
- A green salad: A light side with fresh vegetables balances the meal.
- Corn on the cob: A good choice for summer burger nights and outdoor gatherings.
- Onion rings: Their crunchy coating works well alongside the browned burger patties.
- Pickles and extra condiments: Set them out on the table so everyone can customize their burger.
For drinks, iced tea, lemonade, sparkling water, or your favorite cold beverage makes an easy pairing.
These burgers are also a natural fit for casual family dinners, game-day spreads, backyard cookouts, and relaxed weekend lunches.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Can You Prepare Smash Burgers Ahead of Time?
Yes. The recipe allows the uncooked patties to be covered and refrigerated for at least 15 minutes or up to 24 hours. This makes it easier to prepare the beef in advance and cook the burgers when you’re ready to eat.
Keep the patties refrigerated until you are ready to cook them.
How to Freeze Uncooked Smash Burger Patties
The uncooked patties can be frozen for up to 3 months, according to the recipe’s make-ahead tip.
Freeze the patties on a tray first, then transfer them to a sealed freezer bag. When you’re ready to use them, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
How to Store Leftover Burgers
If you have leftover cooked patties, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate them promptly. For the best texture, store the patties separately from the buns and fresh toppings whenever possible.
The recipe does not specify an exact refrigerator storage period, so follow established food-safety guidance for cooked ground beef and use leftovers promptly.
How to Reheat Smash Burgers
Reheat the cooked patties in a skillet over moderate heat until heated through, taking care not to leave them cooking longer than necessary. You can add the cheese near the end if you want it to soften again.
Warm the buns separately and add fresh toppings after reheating. This helps prevent the lettuce and other fresh ingredients from becoming warm and wilted.
Can You Freeze Fully Assembled Smash Burgers?
The recipe specifically recommends freezing the uncooked patties rather than assembled burgers. For the best texture, freeze the patties before cooking and add the buns, cheese, and toppings when you’re ready to serve.
More Burger Recipes You will love
These are my best burger recipes that you need to try if you are a fan of butger recipes
Jalapeño Cheddar Turkey Burgers
Ultra Crispy Fried Chicken Burger
Jalapeño Cheddar Guacamole Turkey Burgers
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why shouldn’t I form the meat into patties before cooking?
Avoiding pre-forming patties allows the beef to remain loosely packed, which helps achieve the desired crispy edges and juicy interior when smashed onto a hot griddle.
2. How can I achieve a crispy crust on my burgers?
Ensure your skillet is preheated over medium-high heat before adding the meat. Pressing the meatballs flat immediately after placing them in the pan maximizes contact with the hot surface, promoting a flavorful crust.
3. What type of beef is best for smash burgers?
Using ground chuck with an 80% lean to 20% fat ratio provides the right balance of flavor and juiciness. Leaner beef may result in drier burgers.
4. Do I need special equipment to make smash burgers at home?
While restaurants often use specialized tools, at home, a sturdy metal spatula works well. Press down with the back of a wooden spoon if additional pressure is needed.
5. What’s the secret to perfectly melted cheese on my burgers?
After flipping the patties, add a slice of cheese and cover the pan briefly. This traps heat, ensuring the cheese melts thoroughly without overcooking the patty.
Smash Burgers
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Ingredients
- 1¼ pounds ground chuck (80% lean)
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon ground mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Heaping ¾ teaspoon kosher salt (for seasoning before cooking)
- ½ tablespoon vegetable oil
- 4 slices Cheddar cheese
- 4 hamburger buns (toasted, if desired)
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, ketchup, mustard, mayo
Instructions
1. Prepare the Patties:- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, ground mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix thoroughly by hand.
- Divide mixture into four equal portions (approximately 4½ oz each).
- Shape into meatballs, then flatten gently into 1-inch-thick patties, smoothing edges.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 24 hours).
- Heat a 12-inch cast-iron or nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Turn on kitchen vent or fan.
- Remove patties from refrigerator and season generously on all sides with kosher salt.
- Add vegetable oil to skillet, spreading evenly.
- Place each patty into the skillet; immediately flatten firmly with a metal spatula to about ¼-inch thickness.
- Cook patties for approximately 2 minutes, until browned and crusty on the bottom.
- Flip each patty, top with a slice of cheese, and continue cooking for an additional 2–3 minutes until cheese is melted and desired doneness is reached.
- Place cooked patties onto toasted buns.
- Add your favorite toppings and serve immediately.
Make Ahead Tip:
- Uncooked patties can be frozen for up to 3 months. Freeze on a tray first, then transfer to a sealed bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
