Smash Burgers Recipe

Ground beef: The 80/20 blend is ideal for juicy and flavorful burgers.

Burger buns: Soft and slightly toasted, these hold the burger together.

American or cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly over the hot patties.

Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the beef.

Pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the seasoning.

When smashing the ground beef balls, use a sturdy, flat spatula and apply firm, even pressure to ensure the patties are thin and cook evenly. This technique helps create a crispy, caramelized crust on the burger while keeping the inside juicy. Make sure to season the patties immediately after smashing to allow the salt and pepper to penetrate the meat.

• 80/20 blend ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and still provides a good texture for smash burgers.

• 80/20 blend ground beef - Substitute with plant-based ground meat: Plant-based options like Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger offer a similar texture and flavor for those seeking a vegetarian or vegan alternative.

• burger buns - Substitute with lettuce wraps: Lettuce wraps provide a low-carb and gluten-free alternative while still holding the burger together.

• burger buns - Substitute with whole wheat buns: Whole wheat buns add more fiber and nutrients compared to regular white buns.

• american or cheddar cheese - Substitute with Swiss cheese: Swiss cheese offers a different flavor profile and melts well, making it a good alternative.

• american or cheddar cheese - Substitute with vegan cheese: Vegan cheese is a dairy-free option that melts similarly to traditional cheese, suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory umami flavor while also providing the necessary saltiness.

• pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat and a different flavor profile, perfect for those who like a spicy kick.

• Allow the burger patties to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the burgers soggy.

• Wrap each burger patty individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to maintain their shape and prevents them from sticking together.

• Place the wrapped patties in an airtight container or a freezer bag. If using a freezer bag, squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.

• Label the container or freezer bag with the date. This helps you keep track of how long the burgers have been stored.

• Store the burger buns separately. You can keep them in their original packaging or transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag.

• If freezing, place the burger patties and buns in the freezer. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

• To reheat, thaw the burger patties in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or use a microwave if you're in a hurry.

• Toast the burger buns on a griddle or in a toaster before assembling the burgers.

• Assemble the burgers with your favorite toppings and serve hot.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap each burger patty in aluminum foil to retain moisture. Place them on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Toast the burger buns separately in the oven for the last 5 minutes.

• Use a skillet on medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil to the pan. Place the burger patties in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 3-5 minutes per side until warmed through. Toast the burger buns in the same skillet for the last couple of minutes.

• Microwave method: Place the burger patties on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to prevent drying out. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. Toast the burger buns separately in a toaster or toaster oven.

• For a quick fix, use a toaster oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the burger patties on a baking tray and cover with foil. Heat for about 10 minutes. Toast the burger buns in the toaster oven for the last 2-3 minutes.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the burger patties in the basket and heat for about 5-7 minutes. Toast the burger buns in the air fryer for the last 2 minutes.

• Griddle: A flat cooking surface that provides even heat distribution, perfect for cooking the burgers and toasting the buns.

• Spatula: Used to smash the beef balls into flat patties and to flip the burgers during cooking.

• Meat thermometer: Optional but useful for checking the internal temperature of the burgers to ensure they are cooked through.

• Mixing bowl: To hold and divide the ground beef into equal portions before forming them into balls.

• Knife: For slicing the cheese if you are not using pre-sliced cheese.

• Cutting board: A surface to place the cheese and buns while preparing them for the griddle.

• Tongs: Useful for handling the burger buns while toasting them on the griddle.

• Plate: To assemble the burgers and serve them hot.

Preheat the griddle: Start by preheating your griddle while you prepare the other ingredients to save time.

Divide and roll: Quickly divide the ground beef into portions and roll them into balls before placing them on the griddle.

Smash efficiently: Use a sturdy spatula to smash the beef balls flat in one swift motion to ensure even cooking.

Season promptly: Season the patties with salt and pepper immediately after smashing to enhance flavor.

Melt the cheese: Place the cheese slices on the patties while they are still on the griddle to melt them perfectly.

Toast the buns: Toast the burger buns on the griddle while the patties cook to save time and add extra flavor.