How to Make the Perfect Smash Burgers
American · Easy · 25 min · 4 servings
Smash burgers are thin crispy edged patties made by pressing ground beef balls directly onto a screaming hot griddle creating incredible caramelized crust and juicy centers. Stacked with melty American cheese and classic toppings on a toasted brioche bun they are the ultimate fast food experience made at home.
Why this recipe works
This Smash Burgers recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 25 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 710 calories with 42g 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:
- 2 lb 80 percent lean ground beef
- 8 slices American cheese
- 4 unit brioche burger buns
- 0.5 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 medium white onion thinly sliced
- 4 leaves iceberg lettuce
- 2 medium tomatoes sliced
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Balls
Divide ground beef into 8 equal portions of about 4 ounces each and roll them loosely into balls. Do not pack them tightly as a loose ball smashes more easily. Season the tops generously with salt and pepper just before cooking.
Step 2: Heat the Griddle
Place a cast iron skillet or flat griddle over high heat and let it preheat for at least 3 to 4 minutes until it is smoking hot. A screaming hot surface is essential for achieving the signature crispy crust that defines a smash burger.
Step 3: Smash the Patties
Place two beef balls on the griddle at a time. Immediately press each ball down firmly with a heavy spatula or burger press for 10 seconds until the patty is very thin about a quarter inch thick. Cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes until the edges are deeply browned and crispy.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Flip
Flip each patty quickly and immediately place one slice of American cheese on top. Let the cheese melt for about 60 seconds. For a double smash burger stack two patties together before removing from the griddle. Toast your buns cut side down on the griddle for 30 seconds.
Step 5: Build and Serve
Spread a mixture of mayonnaise and mustard on both bun halves. Layer lettuce tomato and onion on the bottom bun then add the cheesy patties. Serve immediately as smash burgers are best enjoyed fresh off the griddle while still hot and crispy.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- American cheese → cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a more bold and sharp flavor profile
- brioche buns → potato rolls or classic sesame seed buns for a more traditional burger experience
- mayonnaise → special sauce made with mayo ketchup and relish for extra classic diner flavor
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Using lean ground beef which does not have enough fat to create the juicy and flavorful crust that smash burgers require
- Smashing the patty too late after it has already started to set which prevents it from spreading thin and forming crispy edges
- Pressing down repeatedly during cooking instead of just one firm initial smash which squeezes out the juices and dries out the burger
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 710 calories, 42g protein, 38g carbs, 44g fat, 2g fiber.
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