why make this recipe
Juicy Smash Burgers are great because they are simple to make and taste delicious! The key is in the method: smashing the beef creates a nice, crispy edge and keeps the inside juicy. This recipe is perfect for a BBQ or a cozy night at home. Plus, you can customize the toppings to your liking!
how to make Juicy Smash Burger
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 brioche burger buns
- Lettuce, tomato, onion (to taste)
Directions
- Preheat your grill or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Divide the ground beef into four equal portions, about 4 oz each, and roll them into loose balls.
- Season each ball generously with kosher salt and black pepper.
- Place a beef ball on the hot surface and smash it down with a heavy spatula until it’s about half an inch thick. Repeat this for the remaining beef balls.
- Cook each patty for about 2 minutes until the edges are crispy. Then, top each patty with a slice of American cheese to melt.
- Assemble your burger on toasted brioche buns with lettuce, tomato, onion, and any other toppings you like.
how to serve Juicy Smash Burger
Serve your Juicy Smash Burgers hot off the grill! You can place them on a plate with some fries or a side salad for a complete meal. Don’t forget to add your favorite condiments like ketchup, mustard, or mayonnaise for extra flavor.
how to store Juicy Smash Burger
If you have any leftover burgers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to save them longer, consider freezing the patties. Just make sure they are cooked first, and then you can reheat them when you’re ready to eat.
tips to make Juicy Smash Burger
- Use high-quality beef, like an 80/20 blend, for the best flavor and juiciness.
- Don’t overwork the meat when forming the balls; keep them loose for a better texture.
- Use a heavy spatula for smashing the patties, so they get that nice crispy edge.
- Toast the buns lightly on the grill for added flavor and texture.
variation
You can change up the cheese by using cheddar or pepper jack for a different taste. You can also add bacon, avocado, or sautéed mushrooms as toppings to make your burger even more special.
FAQs
1. Can I use lean ground beef for smash burgers?
It’s best to use an 80/20 blend for smash burgers as it has enough fat to stay juicy and flavorful. Lean beef may result in drier patties.
2. Can I smash the patties ahead of time?
It’s best to smash the patties right before cooking for the best texture. However, you can prepare the beef balls in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
3. What is the best way to cook smash burgers?
Grilling or using a cast-iron skillet works well. Both methods help achieve that crispy edge while keeping the inside juicy. Just ensure your cooking surface is hot before you start!
Juicy Smash Burgers
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend) High-quality beef for best flavor and juiciness.
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 4 slices American cheese Can substitute with cheddar or pepper jack.
- 4 pieces brioche burger buns Toast lightly on the grill for added flavor.
Toppings
- Lettuce, tomato, onion To taste; can add other toppings like bacon or avocado.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your grill or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Divide the ground beef into four equal portions, about 4 oz each, and roll them into loose balls.
- Season each ball generously with kosher salt and black pepper.
Cooking
- Place a beef ball on the hot surface and smash it down with a heavy spatula until it’s about half an inch thick. Repeat this for the remaining beef balls.
- Cook each patty for about 2 minutes until the edges are crispy. Then, top each patty with a slice of American cheese to melt.
Assembly
- Assemble your burger on toasted brioche buns with lettuce, tomato, onion, and any other toppings you like.