Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (80/20 ratio)
1 tsp kosher salt
½ tsp black pepper
4 potato burger buns or brioche buns
4 slices American cheese
1 tbsp unsalted butter
Optional toppings
Shredded iceberg lettuce
Sliced tomato
Dill pickle slices
Thin sliced white onion
Optional Smash Sauce
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp yellow mustard
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
-
Preheat a cast iron skillet or flat griddle over high heat for about 5 minutes until very hot.
-
Divide the ground beef into 8 loose balls, about 2 ounces each. Do not pack tightly.
-
Butter the burger buns and toast them in the skillet until golden brown. Set aside.
-
Place one beef ball onto the hot skillet. Cover with parchment paper and press firmly with a spatula to smash into a thin patty.
-
Season immediately with salt and pepper.
-
Cook for about 2 minutes until the edges become dark brown and crispy.
-
Flip the patty and immediately place a slice of American cheese on top. Cook another 30–45 seconds until melted.
-
Stack two patties on the bottom bun. Add lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles, and smash sauce if desired.
-
Close with the top bun and serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Notes
Use 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and juiciness.
The skillet must be extremely hot to create the signature crispy smash burger crust.
Smash the burger only once immediately after placing it in the pan.
Double patties produce the classic diner-style smash burger texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet / Griddle
- Cuisine: Skillet / Griddle