How to make smash burgers

After a long week of work, you finally have some downtime and decide to host a casual cookout with friends. As you peruse the internet for unique burger recipes, you stumble upon the buzz surrounding smash burgers–juicy, crisp-edged patties that promise an unforgettable flavor. You can almost taste them sizzling on the grill while envisioning your friends’ delighted reactions as they take their first bites. But, how exactly do you make smash burgers?

To make smash burgers, form ground beef into loose balls and cook them on a hot griddle or skillet, smashing them down with a spatula to create a thin patty. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Add cheese if desired and serve on toasted buns with your favorite toppings.

To dive deeper into the art of crafting perfect smash burgers, start with choosing high-fat ground beef, ideally 80/20 (80% lean, 20% fat), as this will yield juicier patties. Preheat your griddle or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s sizzling hot–this is key to getting that beautiful sear. While the pan heats, take the ground beef and divide it into loose balls, weighing around 3-4 ounces each. When the pan is ready, drop a ball onto it and immediately press down with a sturdy spatula, smashing it into a thin patty. Season liberally with salt and pepper right after smashing. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges are crisp and caramelized, then flip the patty and add cheese if desired. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to melt the cheese. Toast your buns while the burgers finish cooking, assemble with your choice of toppings like lettuce, tomato, onions, and pickles, and enjoy the ultimate pub-style smash burger experience!