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Diner-Style Smash Burgers

A close-up of a juicy smash burger with melted cheddar cheese and shredded lettuce on a toasted bun.
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Learn how to make ultra-crisp, thin smash burgers with a deep Maillard crust, melted American cheese, and simple toppings, just like you find at a classic diner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 4 slices American cheese
  • 4 burger buns
  • 2 tbsp butter, divided
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, thinly sliced onion, pickles
  • For the sauce: 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tbsp ketchup, 1 tbsp yellow mustard, 1 tsp relish, 1/2 tsp paprika, pinch of garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, relish, paprika, and garlic powder. Set aside.
  2. Divide the ground beef into four equal portions (about 4 oz each). Gently form them into loose balls without overworking the meat.
  3. Preheat your cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter.
  4. Toast the burger buns: While the skillet heats, lightly butter the cut sides of the buns and toast them in a separate pan or on the skillet until golden brown.
  5. Place a beef ball onto the hot skillet. Immediately smash it down firmly with a sturdy spatula or burger press to create a thin patty. Season generously with salt and pepper.
  6. Cook for 1-2 minutes until a deep brown crust forms.
  7. Flip the patty. Place a slice of American cheese on top and let it melt.
  8. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the burger is cooked through.
  9. Assemble the burgers: Place a cooked patty on the bottom half of a toasted bun. Add your desired toppings and a generous amount of sauce. Top with the other half of the bun.
  10. Repeat for the remaining burgers.

Notes

  • Using 80/20 ground beef provides the best flavor and crispiness due to its fat content.
  • Don’t overwork the beef when forming the balls; this keeps the burgers tender.
  • Smash the patties quickly and firmly for the best crust.
  • Toast your buns for added texture and flavor.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://blissbatter.com/smash-burger-recipe/