Smash Burger with Easy Sauce

why make this recipe

Smash burgers are a delicious and fun twist on the classic burger. They are juicy, flavorful, and have a great crispy texture that comes from smashing the meat down. This recipe also includes an easy homemade sauce that adds a perfect kick to your burger. Making smash burgers is quick and simple, making them an excellent choice for a weeknight meal or a weekend gathering with friends.

how to make Smash Burger with Easy Sauce

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Burger buns
  • Cheese slices (optional)
  • Tomato, lettuce, and onion (optional toppings)

For the sauce:

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon pickles (chopped)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Preheat a griddle or heavy skillet over high heat.
  2. Divide the ground beef into portions (about 4 ounces each) and form into loose balls.
  3. Place the meat balls on the hot griddle and smash each one down with a spatula to create a thin patty.
  4. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until a caramelized crust forms on the bottom.
  6. If using cheese, place a slice on each patty and cover until melted.
  7. Meanwhile, mix all the sauce ingredients in a bowl.
  8. Toast the burger buns if desired.
  9. Assemble the burger by placing the patty on the bottom bun, topping with sauce and other toppings as desired, and finishing with the top bun.
  10. Serve immediately.

how to serve Smash Burger with Easy Sauce

Serve the smash burgers while they are hot. Place the assembled burgers on a plate, and feel free to add extra sides like fries or a salad. You can also serve drinks like soda or iced tea to complete the meal.

how to store Smash Burger with Easy Sauce

To store leftovers, wrap the assembled burgers in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to two days. If you want to store the patties separately, you can keep the cooked patties in a container and add the toppings when ready to eat.

tips to make Smash Burger with Easy Sauce

  • Use high-fat ground beef, like 80/20 (80% lean meat and 20% fat) for a juicier burger.
  • Don’t overwork the meat when forming the balls; just shape them gently.
  • Make sure your griddle or skillet is really hot to get that nice sear on the burgers.
  • Customize your sauce by adding spices or herbs according to your taste.
  • Experiment with different kinds of cheese for added flavor.

variation

You can change up the flavor of your smash burgers by using different seasoning blends or adding spices to the meat. Consider trying BBQ sauce in the mix for a smoky flavor or adding jalapeños for some heat. You can also offer different types of buns, like whole wheat or brioche, for variety.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

Q: What type of ground beef is best for smash burgers?
A: Ground beef with higher fat content, like 80/20, is best for smash burgers as it keeps the meat juicy.

Q: Can I cook smash burgers on a grill instead of a skillet?
A: Yes, you can cook smash burgers on a grill. Just make sure the grill is hot and follow the same smashing technique for cooking.

Smash Burger with Easy Sauce

Juicy and flavorful smash burgers with a crispy texture, served with a simple homemade sauce, perfect for a quick meal or gathering.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 540 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the burgers

  • 1 pound ground beef Use high-fat ground beef, like 80/20, for a juicier burger.
  • Salt and pepper To taste
  • 4 pieces Burger buns Toast if desired.
  • Cheese slices Optional.
  • Tomato, lettuce, and onion Optional toppings.

For the sauce

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon pickles (chopped)
  • Salt and pepper To taste

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat a griddle or heavy skillet over high heat.
  • Divide the ground beef into portions (about 4 ounces each) and form into loose balls.

Cooking

  • Place the meat balls on the hot griddle and smash each one down with a spatula to create a thin patty.
  • Season with salt and pepper.
  • Cook for about 2-3 minutes until a caramelized crust forms on the bottom.
  • If using cheese, place a slice on each patty and cover until melted.

Sauce and Assembly

  • Meanwhile, mix all the sauce ingredients in a bowl.
  • Toast the burger buns if desired.
  • Assemble the burger by placing the patty on the bottom bun, topping with sauce and other toppings as desired, and finishing with the top bun.

Serving

  • Serve the smash burgers while they are hot, with sides like fries or a salad.

Notes

To store leftovers, wrap the assembled burgers in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to two days. If you want to store the patties separately, keep the cooked patties in a container and add the toppings when ready to eat. Customize your sauce by adding spices or herbs according to your taste.
Keyword Comfort Food, Grilling, Homemade Sauce, Quick Dinner, Smash Burger