Smash Burgers Recipe

Smash Burgers Recipe Introduction Smash burgers are the ultimate way to achieve a crispy, caramelized crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. By pressing down the patties onto a hot griddle, you increase the surface area that touches the heat, creating that crave-worthy sear. Simple, fast, and incredibly delicious, smash burgers are perfect for a quick meal or a crowd-pleasing weekend treat. Ingredients 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat) Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 4 soft burger buns 4 slices of American cheese (or cheese of choice) 1 tbsp butter, for toasting buns Toppings of choice (lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions) Condiments (ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise) Instructions Preheat the Griddle: Set a heavy griddle or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s very hot, about 5 minutes. Form the Meat Balls: Divide the ground beef into four equal parts and gently shape each part into a loose ball. Avoid packing them tightly. Smash the Burgers: Place two of the meat balls onto the hot griddle. Using a sturdy spatula or a meat press, press each meatball down until it’s very thin, about 1/4 inch thick. Season with salt and pepper. Cook the Patties: Let the patties cook without disturbing for 2–3 minutes. This allows a crispy crust to form. Flip and Add Cheese: Flip each patty and immediately add a slice of cheese on top. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes, just until the cheese melts.