Description
Juicy, restaurant-quality smash burgers made with high-heat searing for a crispy crust and tender interior. Quick, customizable, and perfect for casual dining or gatherings.
Ingredients
American-style ground beef 1 lb (450 g, 80% lean)
Kosher salt 1 tbsp
Black pepper 1 tsp (freshly ground preferred)
Unsalted butter 2 tbsp (for griddle and cooking)
Soft buns 4 (brioche or whole-wheat recommended)
Condiments to taste (ketchup, mustard, pickles)
Instructions
Chill an 8-inch cast iron skillet in the refrigerator for 15 minutes
Combine ground beef and salt in a bowl, mixing gently for 10-15 seconds
Grind black pepper directly onto the meat just before shaping patties
Form four equally sized discs, 1½ inches thick, using slightly wet hands
Preheat the chilled skillet to medium-high heat for even searing
Melt 1 tbsp butter in the skillet, then smash each beef disc into a thin patty
Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until a browned crust forms
Add remaining 1 tbsp butter during the second side’s cooking
Toast buns directly on the skillet until golden
Assemble with softened butter, condiments, and optional melt-in-cheese slices
Notes
Use wet hands when forming patties to prevent sticking
Chilling the skillet ensures rapid searing
Butter enhances flavor and can be substituted with oil if preferred
Customize with cheese, lettuce, or any toppings
Serve with fries, coleslaw, or fresh vegetables
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 8
- Category: Baking
- Method: Griddling/Searing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 320
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 85mg