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Smash Burgers

Craving the ultimate homemade burger with crispy edges, juicy centers, and melted cheese? This Smash Burger recipe is exactly what you need!
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

For the Beef Patties:

  • 1 kg ground beef 80/20 blend – 20% fat for best juiciness
  • Salt & black pepper to taste

For the Special Burger Sauce:

  • 3 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp tomato ketchup
  • 1 tsp mustard
  • 1 tbsp pickle juice
  • 1 whole pickle grated
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp white pepper
  • 1 tsp black pepper

For layering:

  • 1 whole onion thickly sliced
  • 8 slices American cheese
  • Pickles sliced for layering
  • 4 brioche buns toasted

For Cooking:

  • 1-2 tbsp butter or oil for toasting buns
  • Parchment paper for smashing burgers

Instructions
 

  • In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle juice, grated pickle, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, white pepper, and black pepper.
  • Cover and place in the fridge for at least 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.Divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions (about 100-120g each).
  • Roll into loose meatballs—do NOT compact them tightly!
  • Heat a cast-iron or non-stick pan over high heat until very hot.
  • Place 2-3 meatballs in the pan (don’t overcrowd).
  • Immediately smash them down using a spatula or burger press. Tip: Place parchment paper between the spatula and meat for easy pressing.
  • Let cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until a deep golden crust forms.Sprinkle the patties with salt & black pepper, then flip them over.
  • Cook for another 2-3 minutes, pressing gently to keep the crispy edges.
  • Add sliced onions to the pan, letting them cook in the beef fat until caramelized.
  • Top each patty with a slice of cheese and let it melt.In a separate pan, melt butter or a drizzle of oil over medium heat.
  • Place brioche buns cut-side down and toast for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.Spread a generous layer of special sauce on the bottom bun.
  • Stack two cheese-covered patties on top.
  • Add caramelized onions & pickles for extra flavor.
  • Close the burger with the toasted top bun, press gently, and serve immediately!
  • Enjoy with crispy fries, onion rings, or coleslaw for the ultimate burger experience! 😋🔥

Notes

Use 80/20 ground beef – The higher fat content ensures juiciness.
Keyword easy dinner, homemade burger, smash burger