Smash Burger
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Smash burgers are a tasty twist on classic hamburgers. You can make them at home in just 10 minutes! The secret is pressing thin patties on a hot griddle. This creates a crispy crust that’s full of flavor.

To make perfect smash burgers, use 80/20 ground beef and a very hot cooking surface. Press the meat firmly with a spatula or bacon press to get it extra thin. Season simply with salt, add cheese, and serve on a toasted bun. You’ll love the crispy edges and juicy center of these quick, delicious burgers.
Exact Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to make delicious smash burgers:
- 1 pound ground hamburger (80/20 beef)
- Seasoning salt
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 hamburger buns
- Butter for the buns
The 80/20 beef is key for juicy burgers. It means 80% lean meat and 20% fat. This ratio gives you the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
Don’t forget to grab your favorite toppings too! Some popular choices are:
- Lettuce
- Tomato slices
- Pickles
- Onions (raw or grilled)
- Ketchup
- Mustard
- Mayo
You can customize your burger with any toppings you like. The beauty of making smash burgers at home is that you get to choose exactly what goes on them.
Instructions
Start by dividing your hamburger into four equal parts. Form each part into a loose ball shape.
Heat your griddle to 375°F. Once hot, place a burger ball on the surface.
Cover the ball with parchment paper. Press down firmly using a large spatula or bacon press. Try to make the patty as thin as possible.
Sprinkle seasoning salt on the patty. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes.
Flip the burger with your spatula. Make sure to scrape up the crispy bits stuck to the griddle.
Put a slice of American cheese on top of the patty. Cook for another 1-2 minutes.
While the burger cooks, butter your buns and toast them on the griddle.
Place your finished patty on a toasted bun. Add your favorite toppings and enjoy your homemade smash burger!

Remember, the key to a great smash burger is getting that thin, crispy patty. Don’t be afraid to really press down when smashing!
Possible Substitutes List & Recipe Variations
You can switch up your smash burger recipe with some tasty alternatives. Try these substitutes for a new twist:
Meat options:
- Ground turkey
- Ground chicken
- Plant-based meat substitute
Cheese choices:
- Cheddar
- Swiss
- Pepper jack
For a healthier bun, go for whole wheat or lettuce wraps. You can also experiment with different seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika.
Want to jazz up your burger? Here are some fun variations:
- Bacon and avocado smash burger
- Mushroom Swiss smash burger
- Spicy jalapeno smash burger
Add some crunch with toppings like pickles, crispy onions, or potato chips. For sauce lovers, try mayo, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing.
Remember, the key to a great smash burger is the thin, crispy patty. No matter what ingredients you use, keep that technique the same for the best results.
Tips, Tricks & Storing
For the best smash burgers, start with cold meat. It’s easier to form into balls and smash on the griddle. Use a heavy spatula or burger press to get a nice thin patty.
Don’t overwork the meat when forming balls. Loose is better for a tender burger. Season generously right before cooking for maximum flavor.
Cook on a very hot surface. A cast iron skillet or griddle works great. The high heat creates a crispy crust.
Smash quickly and firmly in one motion. This helps form the signature crispy edges. Don’t press again after the initial smash.
For cheese lovers, add your slice right after flipping. It will melt perfectly by the time the burger is done.
You can store uncooked patties in the fridge for 1-2 days. Separate them with wax paper. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months.
Leftover cooked burgers keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. Add a splash of water to keep them moist.