Easy Homemade Smash Burger

This easy homemade smash burger recipe brings the joy of backyard grilling right to your kitchen. Each burger features a juicy, crisply edged patty topped with melty American cheese and a creamy tangy sauce that makes every bite memorable. It is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual get togethers where everyone wants something satisfying and flavorful.

I first tried this recipe on a sunny weekend and was hooked immediately. Now it’s my go to when I want the flavor of a gourmet burger without the hassle or fancy ingredients.

Ingredients

• Ground beef 80/20 ratio: this balance of fat and meat ensures juicy patties with good flavor
• Salt: adds essential seasoning and helps to create a savory crust
• Black pepper: brings a subtle heat that complements the beef naturally
• Burger buns: choose sturdy buns that hold up to juicy patties without falling apart
• American cheese: melts beautifully for that classic smooth and creamy topping
• Mayonnaise: forms the base of the secret sauce providing creaminess
• Ketchup: adds sweetness and tang to the sauce
• Relish: introduces a little bite and texture enhancing the sauce’s complexity
• Garlic powder: brings a savory depth to the sauce
• Onion powder: adds a mild sharpness that rounds out the flavor profile

Instructions

Sear the Surface:

Preheat your grill or skillet over medium high heat until very hot. This helps achieve the distinctive crust on the patties.

Form and Press the Patties:

Divide the ground beef into four loose balls roughly 4 ounces each. Place each ball on the hot cooking surface and press down firmly with a spatula to about half an inch thick. Pressing this way ensures a crisp edge and faster cooking.

Season and Flip:

Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly on each patty while it cooks for about two minutes without moving. Flip the patties over carefully to keep the edges intact.

Add Cheese and Melt:

Place a slice of American cheese on each flipped patty then cover briefly to help the cheese melt perfectly smooth.

Toast the Buns:

While the cheese melts toast the burger buns on the grill or skillet to add warmth and a little crunch to every bite.

Build the Burgers:

Spread the Easy Secret Sauce generously on both halves of the toasted buns. Carefully place the cheese topped patty on the bottom bun and close with the top. Serve immediately to enjoy maximum juiciness and flavor.

My favorite part of this recipe is the secret sauce that brings everything together with its creamy tang. It reminds me of a backyard cookout we had when my kids insisted on adding extra relish to the sauce because they loved the bite it gave. Moments like those make cooking this burger even more special.

Storage Tips

If you make extra patties, store them uncooked in an airtight container or freezer bag. They keep well in the fridge for two days or freeze up to three months. When ready to cook, thaw patties in the fridge overnight for best results. Toast buns and assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey can replace beef for a leaner option but watch closely to avoid drying out patties. Swiss cheese can be used instead of American for a nuttier flavor and similar meltiness. Dijon mustard can be added to the secret sauce for extra tang and complexity. Gluten free buns work well to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing taste.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these smash burgers with classic sides like crispy sweet potato fries, a simple green salad, or baked beans. Serve with pickles and extra secret sauce on the side so everyone can customize to their liking. Offer a cold, refreshing soda or iced tea to perfectly balance the rich flavors.

Enjoy these smash burgers hot off the grill for best texture and flavor. They come together quickly and are perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Your Recipe Questions Answered

→ What type of beef is best for smashing burgers?

Ground beef with an 80/20 fat ratio is ideal, providing enough fat for juiciness and crispy edges when cooked.

→ How do you achieve the crispy edges on a smash burger?

Pressing the beef ball firmly on a hot surface creates thin patties that crisp up nicely during cooking.

→ What is the secret sauce made of?

The sauce combines mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, garlic powder, and onion powder for a creamy, tangy flavor.

→ How long should I cook the smash burger patties?

Cook each pressed patty for about two minutes on one side before flipping and melting the cheese.

→ Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be prepared in advance and refrigerated to enhance the flavors before serving.