Classic Smash Beef Burger Recipe
Learn how to make the ultimate classic smash beef burger with crispy edges, juicy centers, and incredible flavor. This easy-to-follow recipe guarantees a restaurant-quality burger at home, perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend BBQs. Discover the secret to achieving that perfect crust!
Hamburger Recipes 
The smash burger technique involves pressing a ball of ground beef onto a scorching hot griddle or cast-iron pan. This maximizes contact with the heat, creating a beautiful, flavorful crust (the Maillard reaction) while locking in the juices. It's a quick cooking method that delivers incredible results.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat)
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
- 4 burger buns (brioche, potato, or classic sesame)
- 4 slices American cheese (or cheddar, provolone)
- Optional Toppings: Lettuce, tomato slices, red onion (thinly sliced), pickles, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, special sauce.
- 1 tbsp neutral oil (like canola or vegetable oil)
Nutritional Information
- Calories: ~450-500 kcal
- Protein: ~30-35g
- Fat: ~30-35g
- Saturated Fat: ~15-18g
- Carbohydrates: ~20-25g
- Sodium: ~500-600mg (varies with salt and cheese)
- Fiber: ~1-2g
Directions
1. Prepare Your Beef
Gently divide the ground beef into 4 equal balls, each weighing approximately 4 oz (113g). Do not compact them too much; keep them relatively loose. Season the outside of each ball lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Heat Skillet and Smash Burgers
Place a heavy-bottomed cast-iron skillet or a flat-top griddle over high heat until it's smoking hot. Add a very thin layer of neutral oil to the pan. Place one or two beef balls on the hot skillet, ensuring there's enough space between them. Immediately, using a sturdy metal spatula (preferably with a flat bottom), firmly press each beef ball flat into a thin patty, about 1/4 inch thick and wider than your bun. Press firmly for about 10 seconds.
3. Develop the Crust
Let the patties cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes. You'll see the edges turn dark brown and crispy, and juices will start to bubble up through the top. This is the crucial step for developing that delicious crust.
4. Flip and Cheese
Using the sturdy spatula, scrape underneath the entire patty to release it from the pan, making sure to get all the crispy bits. Flip the patty. Immediately place a slice of cheese on top of each patty.
5. Toast Buns (Optional but Recommended)
While the second side cooks, you can lightly butter or oil your burger buns and toast them face down on the same hot pan for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. This adds great texture and prevents the bun from getting soggy.
6. Build Your Burger
Place the hot smash burger patties on the toasted buns. Add your favorite toppings and condiments like lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, ketchup, mustard, or mayonnaise. Serve immediately and enjoy your perfectly classic smash beef burger!
