Smash Burger
A delicious and juicy smash burger, featuring crispy edges and a flavorful center, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Burgers
- 1 pound ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 pieces hamburger buns
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for cooking)
Optional Toppings
- lettuce
- tomato
- onion
- pickles
- cheese
- ketchup
- mustard
Instructions
Preparation
- Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 ounces each). Gently shape them into loose balls—do not pack them tightly.
- Preheat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of vegetable oil to coat the surface.
Cooking
- Place the beef balls on the hot surface, leaving space between them. Using a sturdy spatula, firmly smash each ball down until it’s about 1/2 inch thick. Press down once and avoid moving it again.
- Sprinkle the patties with salt and pepper. Let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until the edges are deeply browned and crispy.
- Flip the patties and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side. If adding cheese, place a slice on each patty during the last minute of cooking.
- Remove the patties from the heat and let them rest for a minute. Meanwhile, lightly toast the hamburger buns on the griddle or in a toaster.
Assembly
- Assemble your burgers by placing the patties on the buns and adding your favorite toppings.
Notes
For perfect burgers, use ground beef with at least 20% fat, preheat the cooking surface until it’s smoking hot, and only smash the patties once. Don’t overcrowd the pan and let the patties rest before serving. Variations include using turkey or chicken, different cheeses, and gourmet toppings like avocado or fried eggs.