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If you’re looking for the best smash burger recipe, this is it. Crispy, caramelized edges, juicy buttery centers, melty cheese, and that classic diner-style flavor that tastes even better at home. Whether it’s a summer BBQ, weeknight dinner, or 4th of July cookout, this smash burger recipe delivers every single time.
Why Smash a Burger
Normally, smashing a burger is the one thing you should never do…except here.
Smash burgers work because pressing the beef onto a hot skillet creates deep caramelization and those crispy, golden edges everyone loves. More surface area means more flavor in every bite.
Cade and I discovered smash burgers early in our marriage, and honestly, it’s what turned me from a burger hater into a full-on burger lover. I still love a crispy chicken sandwich, but a good smash burger always wins.
They’re juicy, buttery, packed with flavor, and cook so fast which is exactly what you want for busy summer weeknights, backyard BBQs, or feeding a crowd on the 4th of July.
Why You’ll Love This Smash Burger Recipe
- Crispy edges with juicy centers
- Better than restaurant burgers
- Easy to make in under 30 minutes
- Perfect for stovetop, griddle, or Blackstone
- Simple ingredients with huge flavor
- Great for summer BBQs and weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Smash Burgers
Smash burgers use simple ingredients—the magic is all in the technique. A hot skillet, the right beef blend, and a good smash are what make these burgers unforgettable.
Burger Patties
- Canola Oil: Helps create that perfect crispy sear on the hot skillet without overpowering the flavor.
- Burger Buns: Soft potato buns or brioche buns hold up well and add the perfect buttery base.
- Butter: Used for toasting the buns until golden and extra flavorful.
- Ground Beef (60/40): A mix of chuck and brisket with higher fat content for juicy burgers and crispy edges.
- Salt: Brings out all the rich flavor in the beef.
- Pepper: Adds simple seasoning and a little extra bite.
Toppings
- American Cheese: Melts beautifully and gives that classic diner-style smash burger flavor.
- Lettuce: Adds fresh crunch and balances the richness of the burger.
- Burger Sauce: Creamy, tangy, and the perfect finishing sauce for the ultimate burger.
- Dill Pickles: Add a bright, tangy bite that cuts through the richness
- White Onion: Thinly sliced for a little sharpness and classic burger flavor.
The measurements for each ingredient can be found in the recipe card down below.
How to Make a Smash Burger
- Prepare the beef: Ask your butcher for a 60/40 blend of chuck and brisket (or sirloin), then divide into loose 2-inch balls.
- PRO TIP: The less you handle the meat, the better. Keep the balls loose with jagged edges so that there are more edges to get crispy and delicious!
- Chill: Place the beef balls on a plate and freeze for 15 minutes.
- Toast the buns: Butter and toast the buns in a cast iron skillet until golden.
- Smash: Heat a cast iron skillet over high heat. Add the beef balls and immediately smash thin using a sturdy metal spatula or burger press.
- Season: Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Cook: Let the burgers cook until deeply browned and crispy, then flip.
- Add cheese: Top with American cheese and cover with a lid to melt.
- Assemble: Add burgers to toasted buns and pile on your favorite toppings.
Smash Burger FAQs
This is the secret to making the smash burgers perfectly! With the meat nice and cold, it cooks a little slower while still letting the edges get caramelized and crispy. If the meat is too warm, it cooks too fast and dries out while the edges caramelize.
Yes! If you want that smoky grilled flavor, then absolutely grill them up! You’ll want to put a griddle on top of the grilling grates so you can really smash the burgers down. Or if you have a Blackstone, that works awesome too!
Yes, but you aren’t going to get the same caramelization and crispy edges.
I have found that the most flavorful blend of ground beef, you need to get 60% ground chuck and 40% ground brisket. You’ll need to ask the butcher for this blend.
What to Eat with a Smash Burger
Smash burgers pair perfectly with classic BBQ sides, fresh summer salads, and all your favorite cookout recipes. Here are a few of our go-to sides:
Any of those recipes would be great with these burger, but you can seriously do any side you want! Just some simple french fries make my heart the happiest!
Variations on a Smash Burger
Feel free to top your burgers any way that you want. Here are a few ideas:
- Grilled Onions
- Jalapenos
- Bacon
- Avocado
- Sauteed Mushrooms
I want to know what you choose to top your burger!
If you’re craving that classic diner-style burger with crispy edges, melty cheese, and juicy flavor in every bite, this smash burger recipe is it. Easy enough for weeknights and perfect for summer cookouts, these burgers always disappear fast.
This really is the best smash burger recipe for making restaurant-style burgers right at home.
More Burger Recipes:
Watch How The Perfect Smash Burger is Made…
