Dinner

The Best Smash Burger Recipe

BySimon Carel October 30, 2025October 30, 2025

Introduction

The smash burger is a deliciously simple way to enjoy juicy, flavorful burgers with a crispy edge. This recipe features thinly smashed patties cooked to perfection, topped with classic fixings and a tangy homemade sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal any day of the week.

A close-up of a cheeseburger on a dark wooden surface with deep cracks, the white marbled texture is visible behind it in the blurred background. The sandwich has four visible layers: a shiny golden brown top bun with a smooth texture, a light beige creamy sauce just under the top bun, a thick layer of cooked ground beef patty with a rough texture, a melted bright yellow cheddar cheese that drapes over the edges slightly, and shredded green lettuce resting on the bottom bun that matches the shiny golden brown top bun in color. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12 oz (340g) ground beef (80/20)
Salt, to taste
Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Burger Sauce:

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
1-2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon mustard
Freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Toppings:

Brioche buns
2 slices cheddar cheese
Pickles
Lettuce
Onion, thinly sliced
Tomato slices

Instructions

Step 1: Divide the ground beef into 3 oz (85g) portions and roll each into a ball. Place each ball between two pieces of parchment paper.
Step 2: Using the flat side of a mallet, flatten each ball into a thin round patty.
Step 3: Make the sauce by combining mayonnaise, sour cream, ketchup, mustard, and freshly cracked black pepper in a bowl. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 4: Heat a cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
Step 5: Season one side of a patty with salt and pepper, then place that side down onto the hot skillet. Season the other side once in the pan.
Step 6: Cook for 1-2 minutes until a crust forms, then flip the patty. Cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Step 7: Place a slice of cheddar cheese on one patty, then top with the second patty to create a double. Remove from the pan.
Step 8: Toast brioche buns on the grill or skillet for about 30 seconds.
Step 9: Assemble the burgers by spreading a spoonful of sauce on the bottom bun, then layering lettuce, tomato, and onion. Add the double patty, followed by pickles, more sauce, and the top bun. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika or garlic powder to the meat before shaping.
Use a cast iron skillet for the best crust on your patties.
Swap cheddar for American cheese or pepper jack for a different twist.
Try adding crispy bacon or sautéed mushrooms for extra topping options.

Storage

Store any leftover patties and buns separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat patties gently in a skillet over medium heat to maintain juiciness. Assemble fresh with toppings and sauce before serving.