Smash Burgers

Smash Burgers

Few things say summertime like a good burger! Smash burgers, cooked on a flat top grill or cast iron skillet, are one of the most flavorful ways to enjoy beef. By pressing a ball of ground beef thin on a searing hot surface, the fat renders out, creating a caramelized crust that’s crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor. Quick to make and perfect for a crowd, smash burgers are a must-try for your summer cookouts.

Ingredients

• 4 oz 80/20 or 85/15 ground beef per patty (don’t go too lean)
• 1 slice of cheese per patty (American, cheddar, or pepper jack)
• Seasoning of choice, or salt, pepper, and garlic powder
• 1–2 yellow onions, sliced paper thin
• Buns sized to match your patties
• Burger sauce (½ cup mayo, ½ cup ketchup, ¼ cup mustard, 3 Tbsp relish or pickle juice)
• Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, bacon, avocado, jalapeños, grilled mushrooms
• Parchment paper and burger press

Instructions

1. Prep the Grill

• Heat flat top grill or cast iron skillet on high and oil well.
• Reserve one side on lower heat for holding cooked burgers and toasting buns.
• Roll ground beef into 3–4 oz loose balls.
• Slice onions paper thin.

2. Smash the Burgers

• When oil begins to smoke, place beef balls on the hot side of the grill.
• Cover with parchment paper and use a press or spatula to smash thin.
• Season immediately after smashing.
• Cook for 2–3 minutes without moving to build a crust.

3. Flip and Finish

• Flip patties and cook another 2 minutes.
• Add cheese after 1 minute so it melts over the patty.
• Sauté onions alongside burgers until caramelized.

4. Toast the Buns

• On the cooler side of the grill, toast buns for 1–2 minutes until golden.

5. Assemble

• Stack patties (double if desired), top with onions, and place on toasted buns.
• Add burger sauce and toppings of choice.
• Serve hot with summer sides like corn on the cob or watermelon.