How to Make a Smash Burger That Tastes Like It Came From In-N-Out

All debates aside, there’s no denying In-N-Out makes a dangerously delicious burger . And in terms of quality, In-N-Out is known to use some of the freshest ingredients available, all of which are sourced locally to ensure the best burger experience. If a perfectly smashed patty with crispy edges topped with caramelized onions and American cheese on a toasted hamburger bun is what you crave, In-N-Out is the place for you.

Of course, that's all well and good when you’re picking up a sack of cheeseburgers straight from the source. But what do you do when you’re craving that familiar drive-thru experience at home?

Recreating In-N-Out’s off-menu options is a good start, like the not-so-secret Animal-style offering, which adds a Thousand Island Dressing-based spread to any burger and fries on the menu. But there's an easier method for creating a perfect In-N-Out dupe at home—and it’s known as mustard-style .

Related: 32 In-N-Out Secret Menu Items You Have to Try

Why You Should Cook Your Smash Burgers With Mustard

Those who frequent the popular California-based fast food chain know all about the brand's secret menu. Of all the options available to order from the hush-hush selection, mustard-style tends to be one of the more misunderstood. To clarify, no burger on the In-N-Out menu is made with yellow mustard, it has to be requested. And if you’re a fan of the classic yellow condiment, you’d be impressed to find out how it is used.

Besides changing the flavor profile of the burger patty immensely, adding yellow mustard to the burger before flipping it on the griddle is a great way to add more deliciously crisp caramelization to the patty. The mustard flavors blend beautifully with the juices from the burger patty and fried onions while the American cheese ties everything together in one tasty package.

Related: How to Make a Burger That Tastes Like it Came From a Fancy Burger Joint

How to Make a Smash Burger Taste Like It Came From In-N-Out

Place some thinly sliced onions directly on the surface of a piping hot griddle or skillet followed by the burger patty directly on top. Using a metal spatula, smash the burger patty into the surface of the griddle, completely covering the onions and making sure to thin out the edges. While the first side cooks, spread a tablespoon of yellow mustard on the top of the burger patty, making sure to work it into the meat with the spoon. Season as desired with salt and pepper.

Once the edges of the burger start to crisp and the onions have begun to caramelize, flip the burger mustard-side down and let the griddle to do the rest of the work. While the mustard cooks itself into the patty, add a slice of American cheese to the burger, letting it to melt until the burger has a nice crisp edge and is cooked to your preference. Transfer the patty to a toasted hamburger bun and dress with the condiments of your choice.

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