Smash Burger with Special Sauce
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.
A griddle-smashed beef patty with a crispy lacey crust served with a creamy tangy special sauce.
Nutrition per serving
Ingredients
Patty
Seasoning
Toppings
Special Sauce
Buns
Instructions
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Substitutions
Common mistakes
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