Smash Burgers Recipe

Ground beef: The main ingredient for the burgers, providing the base flavor and texture. An 80/20 fat ratio is ideal for juiciness.

Burger buns: Soft, fresh buns that will hold the burger together and add a slight sweetness.

American cheese: A classic choice for its excellent melting properties and creamy texture.

Cheddar cheese: An alternative to American cheese, offering a sharper flavor.

Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the beef.

Pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth to the burgers.

When smashing the ground beef balls, use a sturdy metal spatula and apply firm, even pressure to ensure the patties are thin and cook evenly. This technique helps achieve the signature crispy edges of a smash burger. Additionally, make sure your griddle or cast iron skillet is preheated properly to create a good sear and lock in the juices.

• ground beef (80/20) - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and still provides a similar texture and flavor when seasoned well.

• ground beef (80/20) - Substitute with ground chicken: Ground chicken is another lean alternative that can be used to create a lighter version of the smash burger.

• burger buns - Substitute with lettuce wraps: For a low-carb option, use large lettuce leaves to wrap the burger patties.

• burger buns - Substitute with whole wheat buns: Whole wheat buns offer more fiber and nutrients compared to regular burger buns.

• american or cheddar cheese - Substitute with Swiss cheese: Swiss cheese melts well and provides a slightly nutty flavor that complements the burger.

• american or cheddar cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone cheese has a mild flavor and melts smoothly, making it a good alternative.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory umami flavor while also providing the necessary saltiness.

• pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat and spice to the burger, enhancing its overall flavor.

• Allow the smash burgers to cool completely before storing. This helps to prevent condensation, which can make the burgers soggy.
• Wrap each burger patty individually in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to maintain their shape and prevent freezer burn.
• Place the wrapped patties in an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag. Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.
• Store the burger buns separately to prevent them from becoming soggy. You can freeze the buns by placing them in a resealable freezer bag.
• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the frozen patties on a baking sheet and cover them with aluminum foil to retain moisture. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• For a quicker option, you can reheat the patties in a microwave. Place a patty on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Toast the burger buns in a toaster or on a skillet until they are golden brown and crispy.
• Assemble the reheated smash burgers with fresh toppings like lettuce, tomato, and pickles for added freshness and crunch.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F. Wrap each burger in aluminum foil to retain moisture. Place them on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Use a microwave for a quick reheat. Place the burger on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway to ensure even heating.
• For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil to the pan. Place the burger in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for 3-4 minutes on each side until thoroughly warmed.
• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F. Place the burger in the air fryer basket and heat for 3-5 minutes, checking halfway to ensure even heating.
• For a grill reheat, preheat your grill to medium heat. Wrap the burger in aluminum foil and place it on the grill. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even warming.

• Griddle: A flat cooking surface that provides even heat distribution, perfect for cooking smash burgers.

• Cast iron skillet: An alternative to a griddle, it retains heat well and gives the burgers a nice sear.

• Spatula: Essential for smashing the beef balls flat and flipping the burgers.

• Tongs: Useful for handling the burger buns while toasting them on the griddle or skillet.

• Meat thermometer: Optional, but helpful to ensure the burgers are cooked to your desired level of doneness.

• Cutting board: A clean surface to divide and form the ground beef into portions.

• Knife: Handy for slicing any additional toppings you might want to add to your burgers.

• Plate: For assembling and serving the finished burgers.

• Paper towels: Useful for blotting any excess grease from the burgers or cleaning up spills.

Preheat the griddle: Start preheating your griddle or cast iron skillet while you prepare the ground beef to save time.

Divide and conquer: Divide the ground beef into portions and form into loose balls before you start cooking to streamline the process.

Season early: Season the beef balls with salt and pepper right after smashing them to ensure even flavor.

Melt the cheese: Add the cheese slices immediately after flipping the patties to speed up melting.

Toast the buns: Toast the burger buns on the same griddle while the patties cook to save an extra step.