Are you ready to elevate your burger game? This smash burger recipe promises a crispy exterior and a juicy, flavorful interior that will leave your taste buds begging for more. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a mouthwatering burger that’s perfect for any backyard barbecue or weeknight dinner. Let’s dive in and get cooking!
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
– Salt and pepper
– 4 burger buns
– 4 slices of cheddar cheese
– Lettuce
– Tomato, sliced
– Pickles
– Special sauce (mayo, ketchup, and sriracha)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of the smash burger (1 burger) contains approximately:
– Calories: 550
– Protein: 30g
– Fat: 35g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your skillet or griddle over high heat.
2. Divide the ground beef into four equal portions, about 4 ounces each.
3. Lightly form each portion into a loose ball—do not pack tightly.
4. When the skillet is hot, place the beef balls onto the surface.
5. Using a spatula, smash each ball flat into a patty.
6. Season each patty generously with salt and pepper.
7. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until a crust forms.
8. Flip the patties and place a slice of cheese on each.
9. Cook for another 2 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
10. Toast the burger buns in the skillet for extra flavor.
11. Assemble the burgers with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and special sauce.
12. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative for a healthier or vegetarian option. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different cheeses or toppings like avocado or grilled onions.
Serving and Pairings
These smash burgers pair perfectly with crispy fries or onion rings. For a refreshing touch, serve with a side salad or coleslaw to balance out the meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover smash burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the patties in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overwork the meat when forming patties; it can make them tough.
– Ensure your skillet is hot enough before cooking for a good sear.
– Avoid pressing down on the patties while cooking; this releases juices.
– Use a spatula to flip gently to maintain the patty’s integrity.
– Always season generously for maximum flavor.
Helpful Tips
– Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; aim for 160°F.
– Experiment with different seasonings in the meat for added flavor.
– Let the patties rest for a minute before serving to retain juices.
– Keep toppings simple to let the burger shine.
FAQs
What type of beef is best for smash burgers?
Using an 80/20 blend of ground beef is ideal for smash burgers, as it provides the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness.
Can I make smash burgers ahead of time?
Yes, you can pre-form the patties and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook, ensuring they’re cooked fresh for serving.
What toppings go well with smash burgers?
Classic toppings include lettuce, tomato, pickles, and various sauces. You can also add bacon, avocado, or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
How do I achieve a crispy crust on my burgers?
Make sure your skillet is preheated and avoid moving the patties too much while cooking to allow a crust to form.
Can I grill smash burgers instead of using a skillet?
Yes, smash burgers can be grilled; just ensure the grill is hot and follow the same smashing technique for best results.
Conclusion
With this smash burger recipe, you’ll be able to impress your family and friends with juicy, flavorful burgers that are simple to make. So fire up that skillet and get ready to enjoy a delicious homemade meal that’s sure to become a favorite!
Smash Burger Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef 80/20 blend
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 burger buns
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
- Lettuce
- Tomato sliced
- Pickles
- Special sauce mayo, ketchup, sriracha
Instructions
- Preheat your skillet or griddle over high heat.
- Divide the ground beef into four equal portions, about 4 ounces each.
- Lightly form each portion into a loose ball.
- Place the beef balls onto the hot skillet and smash each ball flat into a patty.
- Season each patty generously with salt and pepper.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes until a crust forms.
- Flip the patties and place a slice of cheese on each.
- Cook for another 2 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
- Toast the burger buns in the skillet.
- Assemble the burgers with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and special sauce.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
