Description
These juicy smash burgers deliver restaurant-quality results in just 15 minutes. With a crispy, caramelized crust and a soft, juicy interior, this stovetop method is perfect for busy weeknights or game day.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs Ground Beef (80/20 blend, divided into 4–6 balls)
- 1 tsp Coarse kosher salt (per batch)
- Freshly cracked black pepper
- Cheddar cheese slices or shredded American cheese
- 8–12 Burger Buns (Brioche or potato rolls)
- Unsalted butter (for toasting buns)
- Ketchup, mustard, and pickles
- Special sauce (mayo, ketchup, relish)
- Thinly sliced yellow onions or caramelized onions
- Optional toppings: Lettuce, tomato, bacon, avocado
Instructions
- Take ground beef out of the fridge and let it come to room temperature for about 10 minutes.
- Divide the beef into 4-6 equal balls (3-4 oz each). Do not overwork the meat.
- Place a heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron or stainless steel) over medium-high heat until very hot, almost smoking (5-7 minutes).
- Place one beef ball in the center of the hot pan.
- Immediately smash the ball flat with a sturdy metal spatula or press until about 1/4 inch thick. Press firmly to ensure good contact.
- Season the top side generously with salt and pepper.
- Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until the edges brown and crisp up.
- Flip the patty quickly. Immediately place a slice of cheese on top.
- Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the inside is cooked through.
- Remove the patty from the pan. Repeat with remaining beef balls, wiping the pan between batches if needed.
- Butter the buns and toast them in the pan or a separate skillet until golden brown.
- Assemble burgers with sauces and toppings. Serve immediately.
Notes
Ensure the pan is screaming hot before adding meat to prevent steaming. Do not flip the patty too early to allow the Maillard reaction to create a crispy crust. Keep cooked patties warm in a low oven (200°F) if cooking for a crowd. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger with toppin
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 45
- Saturated Fat: 18
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 30
Keywords: smash burgers, easy dinner, quick recipes, stovetop burgers, cast iron recipes, game day food, comfort food, juicy burgers