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Smash Burgers

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Classic diner-style Smash Burgers with crispy, craggy edges and juicy centers, cooked on a hot griddle and topped with melty cheese.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 4 slices American cheese
  • 4 burger buns
  • 1 tbsp butter (for toasting buns)
  • 1/2 cup sliced pickles
  • 1/4 cup diced or sliced onions
  • 1/4 cup shredded lettuce (optional)
  • Ketchup, mustard, or burger sauce

Instructions

  1. Divide the ground beef into 4 loose balls without compressing them.
  2. Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
  3. Place a beef ball on the hot surface and press down firmly with a spatula or burger press to flatten thin.
  4. Season with salt and pepper and cook until edges are crispy, about 2 minutes.
  5. Flip the patties and immediately add a slice of cheese to melt.
  6. Toast burger buns in butter until golden.
  7. Assemble burgers with pickles, onions, lettuce (optional), and preferred sauces.
  8. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Notes

  • Do not overpack the beef; loose meat creates better cragginess and crisp edges.
  • Use a sturdy metal spatula for the best smash.
  • American cheese melts the best for smash burgers.
  • Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Nutrition