Smash Burger Recipe
Discover the secrets to the perfect smash burger recipe with our step-by-step guide and expert tips. Cook the ultimate burger at home!
Equipment
- A sturdy spatula, crucial for smashing those patties thin.
- A cast-iron skillet or griddle, perfect for achieving that essential crust.
- Measuring spoons and cups for precise ingredient portioning.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground beef 80/20 mix
- To taste Salt
- To taste Pepper
- 4 slices Cheese
- 4 Buns
- 8 slices Pickles
- 1 medium Onion thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon Mustard
- Butter for toasting buns
Instructions
Step 1-Prepare Your Ingredients
- Get everything ready: This includes slicing your onions, measuring your seasonings, and prepping your workstation.
- Tip: Keep your beef cold until you’re ready to cook. This makes it easier to handle and helps retain its juicy goodness.
Step 2-Form the Patties
- Shape your beef: Divide the beef into roughly 2-ounce portions. Don’t overwork it; just lightly form it into balls.
- Note: Don’t pre-smash your patties! They should hit the skillet ball-shaped to ensure a tender, juicy burger.
Step 3-Heat the Skillet
- Get your skillet screaming hot: Heat your cast-iron skillet or griddle over high heat. The heat is your friend here.
- Warning: A hot pan is crucial. A lukewarm pan won’t give you that crispy, caramelized crust.
Step 4-Smash the Burger
- Time to smash: Place a ball of beef on the skillet, then firmly press it down with your spatula for about 10 seconds. Aim for patties about 1/4-inch thick.
- Fact: Smashing the burger ensures it gets a nice, even crust. The edges should be slightly ragged for that perfect texture.
Step 5-Season and Cook
- Season: Sprinkle salt and pepper on the patty as it cooks. Let it sear for about 2 minutes until the edges are deep brown.
- Tip: Resist the urge to move the patty. Let the crust form undisturbed.
Step 6-Flip and Cheese
- Flip it: Once you’ve got a good crust, flip the patty. Immediately place a slice of cheese on the cooked side.
- Note: The second side won’t take as long to cook, just enough to melt the cheese.
Step 7-Toast the Buns
- Butter and toast: Lightly butter your buns and toast them on the skillet. This adds flavor and prevents your burger from getting soggy.
- Warning: Keep an eye on your buns; they can go from toasted to burnt quickly if your skillet is too hot.
Notes
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can steam the patties instead of searing them.
- Rest your burgers: Let them sit for a couple of minutes after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices throughout the patty.