ADVERTISEMENT
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Patties:
Start by forming your burger patties. Since we’re making smash burgers, don’t worry about making them perfectly round—just form them into loose balls. Each patty should be around 4-5 ounces. Season the ground beef with salt and pepper just before cooking to keep it tender and juicy.
2. Heat the Griddle or Pan:
For the perfect smash burger, you’ll want to use a griddle or a large, heavy skillet (preferably cast iron). Heat the pan over medium-high heat until it’s smoking hot. A high heat is crucial to getting that crispy, caramelized crust on the patties.
3. Smash the Patties:
Place the burger balls onto the hot skillet or griddle and immediately smash them down with a sturdy spatula or a burger press. You want the patty to be as thin as possible to maximize the crispy edges. Press down hard, but be careful not to break the meat. Cook the patties for about 2-3 minutes on the first side, until they develop a golden, crispy crust.
4. Flip and Add BBQ Sauce:
Once the patty is golden and crispy on one side, flip it over. As soon as the patty is flipped, brush a thin layer of BBQ sauce on top of each patty and place a slice of cheese on top. Continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese has melted and the burger is cooked through. The BBQ sauce will create a delicious glaze that soaks into the patty, enhancing the flavor.
5. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, spread a little butter on the inside of the buns and toast them on the griddle or in a separate skillet until golden and crispy. This adds an extra layer of flavor and ensures your buns won’t get soggy.
6. Assemble the Burger:
Once the patties are cooked and the cheese has melted, it’s time to assemble your BBQ Smash Burger. Start with the bottom bun, then layer on the BBQ-sauced patty with melted cheese. Add your choice of toppings—onions, lettuce, pickles, and tomato are all great options. Drizzle a bit more BBQ sauce on the top bun and place it on top of the burger to complete the masterpiece.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your BBQ Smash Burger immediately while it’s hot and juicy! Pair it with crispy fries, onion rings, or a side salad for the ultimate meal.
Tips for the Perfect BBQ Smash Burger:
- Use the Right Beef: For the juiciest burgers, opt for ground beef with a higher fat content, like 80/20. This ensures your burgers stay tender and flavorful.
- Smash It Hard: The key to a great smash burger is the crispy, caramelized crust. Make sure you smash the patties down with enough pressure to get that signature crunchy edge.
- Don’t Overcook: Smash burgers cook quickly, so keep an eye on them. They should be well-done but juicy, so don’t cook them too long or they might dry out.
- Get Creative with Toppings: BBQ Smash Burgers are the perfect canvas for adding your favorite toppings. Experiment with crispy bacon, caramelized onions, or even a fried egg to take your burger to the next level.
Why BBQ Smash Burgers Are a Must-Try:
The BBQ Smash Burger is the best of both worlds—a juicy, savory patty with all the crispy edges you love, topped with tangy BBQ sauce for that smoky sweetness that’s impossible to resist. The high heat of the griddle helps form the signature crispy edges, making each bite a satisfying experience. Add your favorite toppings, and you’ve got a burger that will leave everyone at the table raving.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a weekend BBQ, these BBQ Smash Burgers are sure to impress. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Once you try them, you might just find yourself making them every week!
Final Thoughts:
The BBQ Smash Burger is everything you want in a burger: juicy, crispy, smoky, and utterly satisfying. With a little BBQ sauce, melted cheese, and the right toppings, this burger becomes a flavor explosion in every bite. Serve it up for your next meal, and watch as your family or guests dive in for seconds. This is a burger you’ll keep coming back to!
