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Looking for the best burger you've ever had? These Smash Burgers are what you need. They've got that perfect mix - super crisp outside with a tender, juicy middle that comes from pressing thin patties onto a sizzling hot surface. Add some crunchy bacon, sweet onions cooked till soft, and gooey cheddar cheese on top, and you've got something amazing. It doesn't matter if it's just Tuesday dinner or you're cooking for friends on the weekend - everyone will be impressed.
Every time I make these Smash Burgers, they vanish fast. There's just something about that combo of the crunchy outside, melted cheese, and all those tasty toppings that can't be beaten.
Essential Components That Matter
- Ground Beef (80/20): This fat percentage gives you the juiciest, most flavorful burgers possible.
- Bacon: Brings that smoky crunch that works so well with the beef.
- Caramelized Onions: Their natural sweetness and soft texture add amazing depth to each bite.
- Cheddar Cheese: Gets all melty and gooey, bringing that rich, slightly sharp taste.
- BBQ Sauce: Adds that sweet-tangy kick that makes everything better.
- Seasoning Blend: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika work together to boost flavor in every bite.
Making Your Smash Burgers
Mix The Seasonings
Take a small dish and throw together some salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. This mix will go on both the meat and onions to make everything taste fantastic.
Form Your Meat
Take your ground beef and split it into eight 3-ounce balls. This amount works perfectly if you want to make double-layer burgers.
Get The Bacon Ready
Turn your flat grill or pan to medium heat. Lay out the bacon strips and cook until they're nice and crispy, roughly 8-10 minutes. Put them on some paper towels when done.
Soften The Onions
Drop some butter onto your hot surface and let it melt completely. Throw in your thinly sliced onions and sprinkle about a quarter of your seasoning mix over them. Keep stirring until they turn soft and golden, which takes about 8-10 minutes. Then set them aside.
Flatten The Burgers
Crank up the heat and add a little vegetable oil. Put your beef balls on the grill after adding seasoning to one side. Cover each ball with parchment paper, then press down hard with a spatula to flatten them really thin, pushing toward the edges for those crispy bits everyone loves. Add seasoning to the top side too.
Cooking Time
Let them cook about 2 minutes until the edges get brown and crispy. Flip them carefully with a scraper. Brush some BBQ sauce on the cooked side and immediately add a cheese slice on top. Let them cook another 2 minutes until the cheese gets all melty.
Put Everything Together
Stack two patties on top of each other if you want that double-decker experience. Put them on warm toasted buns right away, then add your bacon strips and those sweet onions on top.
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Sometimes I'll add some hot mayo or extra BBQ sauce to kick things up a notch. My kids always ask for more - we never have leftovers!
Ways To Serve
Traditional Option
Put your burgers on toasted buns with fresh lettuce, tomato slices, pickle chips, and a good drizzle of BBQ sauce.
Side Dish Pairing
These taste amazing with a big pile of regular or sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
Backyard Parties
They're perfect when you're having friends over. Just set out bowls of toppings like sliced avocado, chopped jalapeños, and different cheese options.
Kid-Friendly Version
Leave off anything spicy and serve them with just ketchup and some fruit or veggies on the side.
Different Takes
Spicy Version
Try adding some jalapeño slices or swap the cheddar for pepper jack cheese.
For Mushroom Fans
Cook up some mushrooms until they're brown and put them on top for an extra savory flavor.
Morning Style
Top your burger with a sunny-side-up egg and a slice of ham for breakfast vibes any time of day.
Plant-Based Alternative
Use your favorite veggie ground beef substitute and non-dairy cheese for a meatless option.
Keeping Leftovers
Fridge Storage
Wrap each cooked patty separately in foil or plastic, then put them in a sealed container in your fridge for up to 3 days.
Warming Up
Use a hot pan or grill to warm them up so they stay crispy. Don't use the microwave or they'll get soft and soggy.
Long-Term Storage
Put the raw meat balls on a cookie sheet in the freezer, then move them to a freezer bag once they're solid. Let them thaw in the fridge before cooking.
When you want food that makes everyone happy, these Smash Burgers really deliver. They're crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor in every bite. You can make them quickly, add whatever toppings you like, and they work for any occasion. Heat up your pan, grab your favorite ingredients, and get ready for what might be the most satisfying burger you've ever eaten!
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I swap beef for another meat?
- Absolutely! Try ground chicken or turkey, but expect a different taste and texture.
- → How do I make these without gluten?
- Just grab gluten-free buns and double-check sauces and seasonings are gluten-free.
- → How should I store leftovers?
- Keep patties and toppings in separate containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat patties in a pan.
- → Is grilling them an option?
- For sure! But smashing works a lot better on a flat skillet or griddle.
- → What can I use instead of BBQ sauce?
- You could go for mustard, ketchup, or even whip up a sauce at home.