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Juicy Smash Burger Recipe

4.7 from 79 reviews

This Juicy Smash Burger recipe offers a deliciously crispy and flavorful burger experience with minimal ingredients. Using an 80/20 ground beef blend, the patties are smashed thin on a hot grill or cast-iron skillet to develop a caramelized crust while staying juicy inside. Topped with melted American cheese and classic fresh toppings on soft brioche buns, these burgers are perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Beef Patties

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Toppings & Assembly

  • 4 slices American cheese
  • 4 brioche burger buns
  • Lettuce, tomato, onion (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Preheat cooking surface: Preheat your grill or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat to ensure it’s hot enough for a proper sear and crust formation.
  2. Portion the beef: Divide the ground beef into four equal portions, approximately 4 ounces each, rolling them loosely into balls to maintain tenderness.
  3. Season the beef balls: Generously season each beef ball with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the meat’s flavor.
  4. Smash the patties: Place a beef ball on the hot grill or skillet and use a heavy spatula to press it down firmly to about half an inch thickness, creating a large, thin patty. Repeat this process for all patties.
  5. Cook the patties: Allow the patties to cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes until crispy, caramelized edges form, then place a slice of American cheese on each patty to melt.
  6. Assemble the burgers: Toast the brioche buns lightly, then layer each bottom bun with lettuce, tomato slices, onion, and the cheesy patties. Top with the bun crown and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Using an 80/20 beef blend ensures the patties are juicy with the right fat content.
  • Smashing the balls thin creates a flavorful crust and quick cooking time.
  • Cast-iron skillets or grills work best to achieve maximum heat retention and caramelization.
  • Toast the buns slightly to prevent sogginess from the burger juices.
  • Customize toppings to your preference, adding pickles, ketchup, or mustard for extra flavor.

Keywords: smash burger, juicy burger, American cheese burger, brioche bun burger, quick burger recipe, cast iron skillet burger, grilled burger