Smash Burger with Crispy Edges (Printable)

Juicy American-style patties with crispy caramelized edges, melted cheese, and fresh toppings on toasted buns.

# What You Need:

01 - 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)

02 - 1 tsp kosher salt

03 - ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

04 - 4 burger buns

05 - 4 slices American cheese (or cheddar)

06 - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced

07 - 1 large tomato, sliced

08 - 4 lettuce leaves

09 - 4 tbsp burger sauce (mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard blend)

10 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for toasting buns)

11 - Dill pickle slices

01 - Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and loosely roll into balls. Do not pack tightly to maintain tenderness.

02 - Heat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over high heat until very hot.

03 - Place the beef balls on the hot skillet. Using a heavy spatula or burger press, smash each ball down firmly until about ½-inch thick.

04 - Season immediately with salt and pepper. Cook without moving for 2–3 minutes until edges are deeply browned and crispy.

05 - Flip burgers, top each patty with a slice of cheese, and cook 1–2 minutes more until cheese melts and burgers are cooked through.

06 - While burgers cook, melt butter in a separate skillet or on the griddle. Toast buns, cut side down, until golden brown.

07 - Spread burger sauce on bottom buns, add lettuce, tomato, and onion. Top with smash patties, pickles if desired, and cover with top bun.

08 - Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

01 -

The crispy edges create this incredible texture contrast that makes every bite interesting
These come together faster than delivery and taste infinitely better

02 -

The pan must be hot enough that you hear a fierce sizzle when the meat hits it
Smash immediately and do not mess with the patties while they sear or you will lose the crust

03 -