How to Make the Perfect Smash Burger with Special Sauce
American · Easy · 20 min · 4 servings
A thin crispy-edged smash burger with a lacy caramelized crust and a tangy homemade special sauce. This fast-food-inspired recipe uses simple techniques that deliver maximum flavor.
Why this recipe works
This Smash Burger with Special Sauce recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 20 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 570 calories with 26g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 8 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 1.5 lb 80/20 ground beef
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 tbsp mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish
- 4 whole brioche buns
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Make the special sauce
In a small bowl combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, and sweet pickle relish. Stir until fully blended and smooth. Taste and adjust with a pinch of salt if needed. Refrigerate until ready to use. This sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead.
Step 2: Portion the beef
Divide the ground beef into 4 equal balls of about 6 ounces. Do not season or shape them yet. Keep them loose and do not compact the balls tightly. Season with salt and pepper only on the outside of each ball right before cooking.
Step 3: Smash and sear
Heat a cast iron skillet or griddle over high heat until it is smoking. Place a beef ball on the surface and immediately smash it flat with a heavy spatula pressing down firmly for 10 full seconds. The patty should be very thin with ragged lacy edges. Cook undisturbed for 2 minutes.
Step 4: Flip and add cheese
Scrape the patty from the griddle using a thin metal spatula and flip it in one quick motion. Place a slice of American cheese immediately on top. Cook for 1 more minute until the cheese is fully melted and the bottom has a good crust.
Step 5: Toast and assemble
Toast the brioche buns cut-side down on the griddle for 20 to 30 seconds until golden. Spread special sauce on both cut sides. Layer the burger patty on the bottom bun and top with shredded lettuce and thinly sliced white onion before closing the bun.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- brioche buns → potato rolls for a softer slightly sweet bun
- sweet pickle relish → finely diced dill pickles for a tangier sauce
- American cheese → Muenster cheese for a milder creamier melt
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Not heating the griddle hot enough before smashing which prevents the Maillard crust from forming
- Pressing the burger after the initial smash which removes the juices instead of sealing them
- Using lean ground beef which produces a dry patty without enough fat for a proper crust
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 570 calories, 26g protein, 34g carbs, 34g fat, 2g fiber.
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