What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade smash burger recipe is a game-changer for burger lovers, offering juicy, flavorful patties that are simple to make yet incredibly satisfying. You’ll love how easy it is to create restaurant-quality burgers in your own kitchen with just a few ingredients and minimal effort.
- Quick and simple preparation – With no fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
- Incredible flavor and texture – The smash technique creates a crispy, caramelized crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
- Customizable to your taste – Add your favorite toppings, sauces, and buns to make these burgers uniquely yours every time.
Recipe
There’s nothing quite like a classic smash burger—juicy, flavorful, and perfectly crispy on the edges. This homemade smash burger recipe is simple, quick, and delivers that diner-style taste right in your kitchen. With minimal ingredients and a hot skillet, you’ll have restaurant-quality burgers ready in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 hamburger buns
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles
- Optional condiments: ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise
Instructions:
- Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each) and loosely shape them into balls. Do not overwork the meat.
- Preheat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until very hot.
- Place a ball of beef onto the hot skillet and immediately press it down firmly with a spatula or burger press to form a thin patty.
- Season the patty generously with salt and pepper.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges are crispy and browned. Flip the patty and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
- If adding cheese, place a slice on the patty during the last 30 seconds of cooking.
- Repeat with the remaining beef balls.
- Toast the hamburger buns in the skillet for about 30 seconds until lightly golden.
- Assemble the burgers with your preferred toppings and condiments. Serve immediately.
Notes:
- Use a stiff spatula or a burger press to guarantee the patties are thin and even.
- Avoid pressing down on the patties after the initial smash to retain juiciness.
- For extra flavor, toast the buns with a light spread of butter.
Equipment:
- Cast-iron skillet or griddle
- Spatula or burger press
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
Makes 4 burgers
Nutrition
Homemade smash burgers are a delicious treat that can be enjoyed in moderation. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (1 burger):
Calories: 350
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 450mg
Total Carbohydrates: 22g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 18g
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my smash burgers with classic sides like crispy fries or a simple salad, but sometimes I like to mix things up with unique twists, like loaded sweet potato wedges or tangy slaw. If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving them with grilled pineapple or spicy pickles for a fun change. Let’s talk about the best ways to round out your burger feast, whether you stick to tradition or get creative!
Classic Side Dishes
When I’m making smash burgers, I always pair them with classic sides that feel just as satisfying as the burgers themselves. Crispy French fries are a must—I love them golden and salty, with just the right crunch. A simple green salad with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the burger. Sometimes, I’ll add coleslaw for a creamy, crunchy contrast. And who can forget pickles? They give that perfect tangy bite. These sides are timeless, easy to make, and always hit the spot, making the meal feel complete.
Unique Pairing Ideas
While classic sides like fries and salads are always a hit, there’s fun in trying something new with your smash burgers. I love serving mine with crispy onion rings dipped in spicy mayo—it’s a game-changer. For a lighter twist, try grilled pineapple slices or pickled jalapeños for a tangy kick. Sweet potato wedges with smoky paprika are another favorite, or go wild with loaded tater tots topped with cheese and bacon. If you’re feeling adventurous, pair your burger with a cold, creamy coleslaw or even a handful of salty pretzel bites. Trust me, these combos make every bite unforgettable.
