Name: Classic Smashed Burger Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: Ground beef (80/20 lean); Mayonnaise; Yellow mustard; Grated yellow onion; Hot sauce; Worcestershire sauce; White hamburger buns; Butter; Kosher salt; Black pepper; American cheese; Shredded iceberg lettuce; Vine-ripe tomatoes

I have to say, there’s something magical about biting into a classic smashed burger. The crispy edges, the juicy center, and the gooey cheese all come together for the perfect bite. When I first made this recipe, I couldn’t believe how easy and fun it was to whip up restaurant-quality burgers at home.

The secret lies in smashing the beef patties on a hot griddle to create that beautiful crust that holds so much flavor. Combine it with a simple, zesty burger sauce and fresh toppings, and you’ve got a meal that’ll have everyone begging for seconds. Trust me, once you’ve made these smashed burgers, you might never want to go back to the drive-thru again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This recipe is all about simplicity and flavor. Here’s why it’s an absolute winner:

Quick and Easy to Prepare

Got a half-hour? Then you’ve got everything you need to make these delicious burgers. With minimal prep and straightforward instructions, the recipe fits perfectly even into the busiest of days.

Crave-Worthy Flavor

When you smash the beef, you get that golden-brown crust that amps up the flavor. Pair that with a tangy homemade burger sauce, and every bite bursts with deliciousness.

Versatile and Customizable

This recipe is a blank canvas. Add pickles, swap the cheese, or experiment with toppings. You can even adapt it to different dietary requirements without losing its charm.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Smashed burgers work for casual dinners, weekend barbecues, or family game nights. They’re easy to make in large batches, making them a stress-free crowd-pleaser.

Cooking Time

Get these sizzling burgers ready in no time!

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make the magic happen:

Ground beef (80/20 lean)
Mayonnaise
Yellow mustard
Grated yellow onion
Hot sauce
Worcestershire sauce
White hamburger buns
Butter
Kosher salt
Black pepper
American cheese
Shredded iceberg lettuce
Vine-ripe tomatoes

Variations

Switch things up and make it your own:

Dairy-Free: Skip the butter and use a plant-based cheese alternative.
Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps.
Spicy Twist: Add jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese for a kick.
Veggie Version: Replace beef with plant-based patties for a vegetarian-friendly option.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large Cast Iron Griddle (or two pans): For a perfectly seared crust.
Mixing Bowl: To whip up the special sauce.
Metal Spatula: Essential for smashing the burger patties.
Knife: To slice tomatoes and shred lettuce.

How to Make Classic Smashed Burger?

Making a classic smashed burger is simpler than you think! Follow these steps for burger perfection. 🍔

Step 1: Prep the Beef

Start by dividing the ground beef into eight equal portions. Aim for small balls about the size of a ping-pong ball. Place them in the refrigerator to keep them chilled while preparing the rest of the ingredients. Chilling the beef helps maintain its texture during cooking. 🥩

Step 2: Make the Sauce

Mix mayonnaise, yellow mustard, grated onion, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl. This special sauce brings just the right balance of tang and spice to your burger. Refrigerate until ready to use. 👌

Step 3: Toast the Buns

Heat the griddle or pans on high. Spread butter on the inside of each bun, then toast them until golden brown. Set the buns aside on plates, ready to be layered with deliciousness later. 🍞

Step 4: Smash the Patties

Place the beef balls on the hot cooking surface. Use a metal spatula to smash each ball into a thin, flat patty (about ¼-inch thick). For better leverage, press down with a second spatula on top. This step is key to achieving that iconic crispy crust. 🔥

Step 5: Season and Cook

Spread a teaspoon of the special sauce onto each patty and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the edges are crispy, then flip. Add a slice of American cheese to four of the patties. Stack a plain patty on top of a cheese patty and cook for another minute before removing. 🧀

Step 6: Assemble the Burgers

Spread the remaining special sauce on the bottom buns. Add shredded lettuce and tomato slices, then stack your double patties on top. Place the top bun, and voila, your smashed burger is done! 🍔

Tips for Making the Recipe

Chill the Beef: Keep the beef cold to maintain its structure while cooking. Warm beef can fall apart more easily during smashing.
Use High Heat: A super-hot griddle is essential for getting that crispy crust. Don’t rush and preheat your pan for a few minutes.
Avoid Over-Smashing: Press the patties only once. Repeated smashing can make them dry.
Flavor the Pan: Add a touch of butter or oil before placing the beef balls to enhance flavor and prevent sticking.

How to Serve Classic Smashed Burger?

To impress your family or friends, serve these burgers with flair! Arrange them on a platter with a bowl of extra special sauce for dipping. Garnish the plate with fresh lettuce or sliced pickles for a vibrant presentation. For a hearty meal, pair the burgers with fries, onion rings, or a simple side salad. These smashed burgers are perfect for indulging with a fizzy soda or a chilled beer.

Nutritional Information

This burger packs flavor with nutritional balance.

Calories: Approx. 540 per serving
Protein: 26 grams
Carbohydrates: 32 grams
Fat: 37 grams

Make Ahead and Storage

If you’re planning ahead, you can partially prep this recipe. Divide and shape the beef into balls and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. You can also prepare the special sauce in advance; it’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days.

Leftover assembled burgers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to two days. For the best result, store the patties, buns, and toppings separately, then reassemble and reheat as needed. Freezing leftover patties is also an option; wrap them tightly, and they’ll last up to three months. Thaw overnight before reheating.