Craving a juicy, flavorful burger? This smash burger recipe will satisfy your taste buds with its crispy edges and tender center. Using a simple technique, you’ll create a burger that’s perfect for grilling season or any casual meal. Serve it with your favorite toppings and enjoy a delicious homemade experience that rivals your favorite diner!
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
– 4 burger buns
– 4 slices of cheese (American or cheddar)
– 6 slices of crispy bacon
– Lettuce leaves
– Sliced tomatoes
– Pickles
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tbsp mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 burger) contains approximately 550 calories, 35g fats, 30g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 4g fiber.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat a griddle or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions, about 4 oz each.
- Season the beef lightly with salt and pepper.
- Place each beef portion onto the hot surface.
- Using a spatula, smash the beef down firmly to create a thin patty.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges are browned.
- Flip the patty and immediately place a slice of cheese on top.
- Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Toast the burger buns on the griddle for extra flavor.
- Assemble the burger with bacon, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and condiments.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based alternatives for a healthier or vegetarian option. Use gluten-free buns for a gluten-free meal.
Serving and Pairings
Serve these smash burgers with crispy fries, onion rings, or a fresh salad. Pair with your favorite beverages like soda or craft beer for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Burgers can be frozen for up to 3 months; reheat from frozen in the oven.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overwork the beef; handle it gently to keep it tender.
- Use high heat to achieve a good sear.
- Don’t flip the burgers too soon; let them develop a crust.
- Keep an eye on cooking time to avoid overcooking.
- Experiment with different cheeses for variety.
Helpful Tips
- Let the meat sit at room temperature before cooking for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (160°F for medium).
- Consider adding some garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.
- Customize toppings to suit your taste preferences.
FAQs
Can I use leaner ground beef?
While leaner beef can be used, it may result in a drier burger. The fat content helps keep the burger juicy and flavorful.
What toppings work best with smash burgers?
Popular toppings include crispy bacon, avocado, sautéed onions, and a variety of sauces like barbecue or ranch.
How do I get that crispy edge on my burger?
The key is to smash the burger down onto a hot surface and leave it undisturbed to create a good sear.
Can I make these burgers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties in advance and store them in the fridge until ready to cook.
What type of cheese melts best on smash burgers?
American cheese is a classic choice for its meltability, but cheddar and Swiss also work well.
Are smash burgers healthier than regular burgers?
While they can be made with leaner ingredients, the healthiness depends on the ingredients used and portion sizes.
Conclusion
The smash burger is a delightful twist on the classic burger, offering a perfect combination of flavor and texture. Whether for a family meal or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy every bite of this homemade culinary treat!
Smash Burger Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef 80/20
- 4 burger buns
- 4 slices of cheese American or cheddar
- 6 slices of crispy bacon
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced tomatoes
- Pickles
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat a griddle or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions, about 4 oz each.
- Season the beef lightly with salt and pepper.
- Place each beef portion onto the hot surface.
- Using a spatula, smash the beef down firmly to create a thin patty.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges are browned.
- Flip the patty and immediately place a slice of cheese on top.
- Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Toast the burger buns on the griddle for extra flavor.
- Assemble the burger with bacon, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and condiments.
