Ingredients
For the Smash Burgers
- 1 lb. ground hamburger (80/20)
- Seasoning salt, to taste
- 4 slices American cheese
For the Buns
- 4 buns, buttered
Instructions
- Divide the Meat: Divide the 1 lb. of ground hamburger into four equal portions and loosely form each into a ball, being careful not to compact the meat too much to keep the burgers tender.
- Preheat Griddle: Heat a griddle to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it is hot enough to sear the burgers and create a crispy crust.
- Place Meat on Griddle: Place one meatball on the hot griddle to start cooking the burger.
- Smash the Patty: Cover the meatball with a piece of parchment paper and press down firmly using a large spatula or bacon press to flatten the patty as thin as possible.
- Season the Patty: Sprinkle seasoning salt evenly over the flattened patty for added flavor. Allow it to cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes to develop a crust.
- Flip the Patty: Flip the burger carefully with a spatula, scraping up the delicious crust that has formed on the underside.
- Add Cheese: Immediately place a slice of American cheese on top of the patty to melt while the other side cooks.
- Finish Cooking: Cook the cheese-covered patty for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until the cheese melts and the burger is cooked to desired doneness.
- Assemble the Burger: Place the cooked patty on a toasted, buttered bun and add your preferred condiments before serving.
Notes
- Using parchment paper while smashing helps prevent the meat from sticking to your spatula or press.
- Cooking at a high heat quickly seals in the juices while creating a flavorful crust.
- Seasoning salt can be substituted with your favorite burger seasoning blend.
- For juicier burgers, avoid pressing down on the meat after the initial smash.
- Customize your burger with toppings like lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onions as desired.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
