Name: Smash Burger
Yield: 4

Smash Burger Recipe that nails the crispy edges, juicy center, and sauce-dripping perfection every single time!

Author’s Notes

Burgers Worth the Hype!

I mentioned when I shared this “crack” burger recipe that I had finally nailed the OG Smash Burger. I took the photos earlier this week and now it’s finally getting posted! Yay!

Even though the method for both burgers is almost the same, the flavors are completely different. This smashburger recipe is a little simpler than the crack burgers since you don’t need to mix anything into the beef. Plus, they’re topped with a reliable straightforward sauce–the same one I used in these burger bowls.

My number one tip for success is to use an electric griddle. It keeps the heat steady and gives you plenty of space to smash and flip, which is much easier than trying to make them in a skillet. I hope you get to try these at least once this summer. They’re truly so satisfying and straightforward to make!

Ingredients prepped out for straightforward assembly including the buns, beef, relish, mayo, ketchup, paprika, cheese, and toppings.

Quick Tip

Why This Smash Burger Recipe Works: Smashing the beef creates a crispy, golden crust while high-fat beef keeps the burgers juicy.

Simple salt and pepper bring big flavor. Toasted, buttered buns and a creamy sauce tie it all together. Quick, fun, and better than takeout.

The best burger sauce being whisked together in a bowl for this smashburger recipe.

Smash Burger Recipe Tips

Use cold meat and don’t over-handle it so the patties stay tender/hold their shape.
Smash just once right after placing the meat on the hot surface. Pressing again squeezes out the juices.
Leave space between patties so they can crisp up instead of steam.
Place parchment on the meat when smashing to prevent sticking.

The beef being rolled into a ball and then smashed into a thin patty on the grill to brown.

Variations

Change Things Up!

Here are some of a reliable things to try with this Smash Burger Recipe:

Onion smash: Add thinly sliced onions on top of the beef before smashing.
Spicy: Mix in diced jalapeños and top with pepper jack cheese plus some hot sauce.
Bacon lovers: Layer crispy bacon or bacon jam under the cheese.
Sauces: Try barbecue sauce, ranch, or chipotle ranch instead of the burger sauce.

The cheese being placed on the smashburger recipe and the cheese melting onto it.

Storage

Once made, Smash Burgers are best enjoyed promptly. Keep patties in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. Store buns and toppings separately. Reheat patties in a skillet and assemble with fresh toppings.