Description
Learn how to make the ultimate Smash Burger with a crispy, juicy patty topped with melted cheddar cheese, all sandwiched between toasted buns. This recipe reveals seven secrets for juicy perfection, using a skillet and simple ingredients to create a restaurant-quality burger at home in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Burgers
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
For the Buns
- 4 burger buns
Instructions
- Preheat the skillet: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat until hot enough to sear the burgers properly.
- Divide the beef: Separate the ground beef into four equal portions for even-sized patties.
- Form loose balls: Shape each portion into a loose ball to prepare for smashing.
- Add oil to skillet: Pour the vegetable oil into the hot skillet to prevent sticking and promote browning.
- Place and smash beef: Place each beef ball into the skillet and immediately smash down with a spatula to form thin patties, increasing surface area for crispy edges.
- Season the patties: Sprinkle salt and pepper onto the smashed patties for balanced flavor.
- Cook first side: Let the patties cook for 3-4 minutes undisturbed to get a nice crust.
- Flip and cheese: Flip the patties, immediately add a slice of cheddar cheese to each, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until cheese melts and patties finish cooking.
- Toast the buns: While patties finish, place the burger buns cut side down in the skillet to toast until golden and crisp.
- Assemble the burgers: Build your burgers by placing the cheesy patties on the toasted buns and adding your favorite toppings to complete the perfect smash burger experience.
Notes
- Use 80/20 ground beef for optimal juiciness and flavor balance.
- Press firmly when smashing patties to maximize crust development.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet to allow even cooking of patties.
- Customize toppings like lettuce, tomato, pickles, or sauces to suit your taste.
- Toast buns in the same skillet to absorb leftover flavors and add crispness.
