Introduction
Smash burgers are a delightful way to enjoy a classic meal with a twist. This recipe brings together juicy beef patties, a unique house sauce, and simple toppings to create the ultimate burger experience. Whether you’re grilling in your backyard or cooking on the stovetop, these smash burgers promise incredible flavor and texture.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Ground beef (80/20 or 85/15) – 1 pound
Salt – 1 teaspoon
Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
Cheddar cheese – 4 slices
Burger buns – 4
Lettuce – 4 leaves
Tomato – 1, sliced
Pickles – to taste
For the house sauce:
Mayonnaise – ¼ cup
Ketchup – 2 tablespoons
Dijon mustard – 1 tablespoon
Garlic powder – ¼ teaspoon
Onion powder – ¼ teaspoon
Pickle juice – 1 teaspoon
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time – 10 minutes
Total Time – 25 minutes
Yield – 4 burgers
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle juice, mustard, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly and set aside to let the flavors meld.
Shape the Patties
Take the ground beef and divide it into 4 equal portions. Gently shape each portion into a ball without overworking the meat. Make a slight indentation in the center of each ball for even cooking.
Preheat the Griddle
Heat a flat-top griddle or cast-iron skillet over high heat until it is very hot. You can sprinkle a few drops of water on it; they should sizzle and evaporate immediately.
Cook the Patties
Place the meat balls on the griddle. Using a heavy spatula, press each meat ball down firmly to form a thin burger patty. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges are nicely browned.
Flip and Cheese It
Flip the burger patties and immediately place a slice of cheese on each one. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the other side is browned.
Toast the Buns
While the burgers are cooking, split the burger buns and toast them on the griddle until golden brown. This should take about 1-2 minutes.
Assemble the Burgers
Spread a generous amount of the house sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Add the cheese-topped patties, followed by lettuce, tomato, and any other desired toppings. Cap with the top half of the bun.
Serve
Serve the burgers immediately with fries or chips on the side for a complete meal.
Notes
Meat Choice
Use ground beef with a higher fat content (around 80/20) for juicier burgers.
Pressing Technique
Press the patties down firmly to ensure they cook evenly and develop a nice crust.
Customizations
Feel free to customize the house sauce or toppings according to your preference.
Leftover Burgers
Store any leftover cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Cook techniques
Smashing the Burger
When making smash burgers, the key technique is to use a flat spatula to press down on the ball of meat as soon as it hits the cooking surface. This creates a larger surface area, enhancing the caramelization and flavor.
Choosing the Right Fat
Using a meat blend with a higher fat content, such as 80/20 beef, helps to ensure that your burgers remain juicy and flavorful throughout the cooking process.
High Heat Cooking
Cooking smash burgers on high heat is essential for achieving that perfect sear. A hot griddle or skillet helps to lock in juices and creates a beautiful crust.
Proper Seasoning
Season the patties generously with salt and pepper before and after cooking. This enhances the meat flavor and contributes to the overall deliciousness of the burger.
Resting the Burger
After cooking, let the burger rest for a minute or two. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy bite with every mouthful.
FAQ
What kind of beef is best for smash burgers?
The best beef for smash burgers is an 80/20 blend of ground beef, which provides a good balance of flavor and fat for juiciness.
Can I use a grill instead of a skillet?
Yes, you can use a grill, but ensure it’s hot enough to achieve that necessary sear.
What toppings are recommended for smash burgers?
Classic toppings include cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onion, but feel free to customize with your favorites.
How do I prevent my burgers from sticking to the pan?
Using enough oil or fat and ensuring the cooking surface is hot before adding the meat can help prevent sticking.
Can I make the house sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the house sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week for convenience.
Conclusion
The Smash Burgers with House Sauce are a delicious and satisfying option for any burger lover. The combination of juicy beef, crispy edges, and flavorful house sauce creates a memorable meal. Whether enjoyed on their own or with sides, these burgers are sure to please.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Classic Cheeseburger
Elevate your smash burger by adding slices of your favorite cheese during the cooking process, allowing it to melt perfectly over the patty.
Bacon Smash Burger
Incorporate crispy bacon into your smash burger for an extra savory crunch and smoky flavor that complements the house sauce beautifully.
Spicy Smash Burger
Add pepper jack cheese and jalapeños to your smash burger for a spicy kick that adds heat and flavor complexity.
Mushroom Swiss Burger
Top your smash burger with sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese for a rich, earthy twist that takes it to another level.
BBQ Smash Burger
Mix in your favorite BBQ sauce into the house sauce for a tangy and sweet combination, perfect for summer cookouts.
Veggie Smash Burger
Try creating a veggie version with a bean patty or grilled portobello mushrooms, paired with the house sauce for a delightful meat-free option.