How to Make a Smash Burger

If there’s one recipe that proves great food doesn’t need to be complicated, it’s the smash burger. Made with ranch-raised ground beef, high heat, and simple seasoning, this burger delivers crispy edges, juicy flavor, and that diner-style sizzle everyone loves. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this method guarantees perfect burgers every time.

Once you learn how to make a smash burger, you’ll never go back! This quick, easy burger is juicy and not too thick, with crispy edges and crust. Stack up your smash burgers and build the perfect burger.

You do need a few tricks of the trade to make the best smash burgers. A heavy spatula is key. Yes, you can use a grill press too. Just don’t use a spatula with holes in the top. Trust me on this, it makes a mess and doesn’t work. If you have trouble with beef sticking to the spatula as you smash, try spraying spatula with cooking oil (we like avocado oil spray) or dipping smash side into hot oil on cooking surface.

The smash takes some practice. It’s ok to have uneven, craggy edges. I also keep another spatula handy to unstick a stuck smash burger from a spatula. You can slide it between the spatula and burger to help unstick.

Another secret to great smash burgers is the cooking surface. You can’t make these on traditional grill grates. They fall through the holes, cause flare-ups and it just doesn’t work. You can use your traditional grill with a griddle or cast iron skillet. Cast iron works on stovetop too. If you’ve got one, flat top grills are made for smash burgers.

Use 80/20 ground beef for smash burgers. Super lean burger blends are not made to smash. Get that great blend of 80% lean and 20% fat (fat = flavor) for all of your burgers. Why buy lean burger? You lose all the flavor. Switch to 80/20 ground beef direct from the farm. It’s a game changer for all your ground beef meals.

How to Make a Smash Burger Recipe:

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 pound Felton Angus Beef
• Avocado Oil
• Salt & Pepper
• Sliced Cheese: American Cheese, Cheddar or Colby Jack
• Optional Toppings: bacon, onions, lettuce, tomato, pickles, avocado, mustard, ketchup, mayo

 Tools Needed: Heavy Spatula, Cast Iron Skillet, Griddle or Flat Cooking Surface

 DIRECTIONS:

1. Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions. Loosely form into balls with your hands (do not form patties).
2. Heat cast iron skillet (on grill or stove), griddle, or flat top grill to medium-high heat. Get it hot!
3. Add oil to heated surface.
4. In batches if needed, place ground beef ball onto hot skillet.
5. Using a flat broad spatula, smash burgers flat.
6. Season with salt and pepper (or your favorite rub).
7. Cook undisturbed (don’t keep smashing, once is enough) until edges are browned, about 2 minutes.
8. Flip patties, season with salt and pepper.
9. Place slice of cheese on top of each burger.
10. Cook until cheese melts to desired doneness (1 minute for medium-rare).
11. Serve with all your favorite burger toppings: bacon, onions and condiments.

DOWNLOAD SMASH BURGER RECIPE PDF