Smash Burgers

Smash burgers are the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy, caramelized edges with juicy, tender beef to create a burger that feels like a nostalgic diner experience at home. These quick and easy burgers come together in minutes but deliver big on flavor. Using just a few key ingredients, you'll be transported to a cozy diner where the burgers are always cooked to perfection.

Start with ground beef, preferably an 80/20 mix, to get the ideal balance of fat and flavor. Season it with a generous pinch of salt and pepper to bring out the rich beefy taste. The trick to a perfect smash burger is in the cooking technique. Simply form the beef into balls, then smash them onto a hot, greased pan or griddle. This allows the burgers to crisp up around the edges while staying juicy on the inside. The sear creates a beautiful, crispy crust, while the inside stays tender and flavorful.

While the patties are cooking, get the toppings ready. Fresh lettuce, sliced tomato, and pickles all add crunch and brightness to each bite. But the real star of the show is the burger sauce—a creamy, tangy blend of mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, grated pickle, and a few spices. The slight sweetness from the ketchup and tang from the mustard and pickle juice make for a sauce that perfectly complements the rich, savory flavor of the beef.

When the smash burgers are cooked, assemble them on soft, buttery brioche buns. The buns soak up the sauce while holding everything together without getting soggy. Add a slice of cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt over the hot patty, and stack on the fresh veggies. Serve with crispy fries or a side salad, and you’ve got a meal that’s both simple and indulgent.