This Is Your Sign to Smash Your Burgers to Make Them Thin, Crispy and Irresistible: Full Recipe

I've been a huge fan of burgers since I was a kid, making them my signature order every time my family would go out to eat. But lately, the usual thick, round-cut patties haven't been cutting it. That's when I learned about smash burgers: thin, crispy and caramelized patties that explode with flavor. And the best part? This recipe takes 10 minutes to make on your stovetop. I'll also share some pro tips for getting the perfect crust that rivals any burger joint. So, let's get smashing — this is your guide to smash burgers.

What are smash burgers?

Smash burgers are a style of hamburger that involves smashing a ball of ground beef onto a hot griddle or skillet to create a thin, crispy patty. This allows for maximum contact with the cooking surface, creating a nice crust with lace-like edges. The technique enhances the flavor and provides a better meat-to-toppings ratio. Smash burgers gained popularity in the early 2000s, thanks to specialty chains like Five Guys and In-N-Out . Watch the TikTok below to see the results:

Love smash burgers? Make these Smash Burger Tacos .

How to make restaurant-quality smash burgers

Here are some tips I used to achieve a crispy and juicy patty:

1. Use high-quality beef

Opt for ground beef with a higher fat content; I like 80/20. The fat helps create a juicy burger and adds flavor. Freshly ground beef instead of premade patties is ideal for the best texture and taste. And remember to chill your formed balls; cold meat holds together better.

2. Preheat your cooking surface

Make sure your cast iron skillet or griddle is very hot before adding the beef. A hot cooking surface ensures a quick sear, creating that caramelized crust. Heat it for a few minutes until it’s smoking slightly.

3. Smash quickly and firmly

When placing the beef ball on the griddle, use a sturdy spatula and any kitchen tool you prefer (I used the back of a wooden spoon) to smash it quickly and firmly. You can add a layer of parchment paper to avoid sticking. Pressing slowly or not loosely can result in uneven cooking and less crust formation.

Easy stovetop smash burgers recipe

This is my go-to recipe I use from Sugar Spun Run, which includes a delicious homemade burger sauce.

Ingredients:

Sauce

• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 Tbs. ketchup
• 1 Tbs. sweet relish
• ¼ tsp. smoked paprika

Burgers

• 1 tsp. neutral cooking oil
• 1 lb. 80-85% ground beef
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 Tbs. salted butter
• 4 burger buns, any kind
• Sliced American cheese, if desired
• Preferred toppings, if desired

Directions:

• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

1. Whisk together the mayo, ketchup, relish and smoked paprika. Cover and refrigerate.
2. Line a plate with wax paper. Divide beef into four equal pieces, then loosely form each into a ball. Season with salt and pepper. Keep cold in the fridge.
3. Drizzle oil in a cast iron pan and use a paper towel to smear it evenly over the surface. Turn heat to medium-high and heat until smoking.
4. Add a ball of meat to the pan. Then, immediately use a large spatula to firmly press straight down on the burger until flat. Cook for one minute, until a crust has formed. Season with more salt and pepper. Then, use the spatula to flip. Add a slice of cheese, if desired. Cook for 45 seconds longer. Transfer burgers to a clean plate and cover with foil.
5. Add butter to the pan. Once melted, turn off pan and place burger buns cut-side down and cook briefly, until warm and toasted.
6. Spread burger sauce onto toasted buns, top with burgers and any additional toppings and serve immediately.

More recipes for burger lovers:

Burger Bowls Are a Flavorful and Filling All-in-1 Meal! See the Easy TikTok Recipe

This Savory Brioche Breakfast Burgers Recipe Will Be Your New Brunch Favorite