Smash Burger
If you’ve never tried a smash burger before, you’re in for a real treat. The beauty of a smash burger lies in its simplicity and crispy texture. When you press the patty onto the hot pan, the edges get wonderfully crispy, while the center remains juicy. It’s this contrast in texture that makes smash burgers so irresistibly delicious. And the best part? You don’t need a fancy grill — a cast-iron skillet does the job perfectly.
In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make a homemade smash burger from scratch, complete with a tangy burger sauce and all the toppings you crave. Whether you're making it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this burger is guaranteed to satisfy.
Ingredients:
I. Ground Beef (80/20): This ratio ensures the perfect balance of fat and flavor, resulting in a juicy, flavorful patty.
II. American Cheese: Classic, melty, and gooey. It’s the cheese that’s essential for a traditional smash burger.
III. Brioche Buns: Soft, buttery, and slightly sweet, these buns complement the crispy patty perfectly.
IV. Burger Sauce: A combination of mayo, ketchup, mustard, and a touch of pickle juice for extra tang.
V. Pickles:
The crunch and acidity of pickles balance the richness of the burger.
Instructions:
1. Prep the Patties: Start by forming the ground beef into loose balls, each about 3 ounces. You don’t need to pack the beef tightly; a light touch is key to maintaining juiciness.
2. Heat the Pan: Preheat your cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat for at least 5 minutes. The pan should be piping hot when you place the patties on it to achieve that perfect crispy edge.
3.
Smash the Patties: Place a beef ball into the hot skillet and immediately press it down with a spatula (or use a burger press if you have one). Hold the pressure for a few seconds to flatten the patty. This is where the magic happens — the edges get beautifully crispy, and the center stays juicy.
4. Cook the Patty: Let the patty cook for about 2-3 minutes on the first side without moving it. Flip it over, add a slice of cheese, and cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the patty to finish cooking.
5. Toast the Buns: While the patties are cooking, toast the brioche buns in the same skillet for a few seconds, until golden brown.
6. Assemble the Burger:
Spread burger sauce on both the top and bottom buns. Place the patty with melted cheese on the bottom bun, and top with pickles. Add the top bun and serve immediately.
Conclusion:
There’s nothing quite like a homemade smash burger. The combination of crispy edges, juicy center, and tangy sauce makes each bite incredibly satisfying. And while it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings, this classic version with pickles and cheese is perfect just the way it is. Give it a try, and you’ll see why smash burgers are here to stay.