Name: Irresistible Smash Burger Recipe with Easy Secret Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb 80/20 ground beef; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 4 slices American cheese; 4 brioche buns; Toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, onions; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tbsp ketchup; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tbsp pickle juice

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Introduction

The irresistible smash burger offers crispy edges, melty cheese, and a delicious secret sauce that takes this classic American favorite to the next level. Quick to make and full of flavor, it’s perfect for satisfying your burger cravings any day of the week.

A close-up of a large burger with a shiny dark brown sesame seed bun on top. Below the bun, there is a creamy orange sauce spread over a grilled beef patty that looks juicy and slightly charred. Under the patty, thick slices of bright green pickles rest on the white toasted bottom bun. The sandwich sits on a white plate on a white marbled surface, showing soft and fresh textures in all layers. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb 80/20 ground beef
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
4 slices American cheese
4 brioche buns
Toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, onions
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp pickle juice

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat to ensure a perfect sear.
Step 2: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and pickle juice to make the secret sauce; set aside.
Step 3: Divide the ground beef into four loose balls and season each generously with salt and black pepper.
Step 4: Place each ball onto the hot grill or skillet and smash firmly using a spatula to form thin patties. Cook for about 3 minutes until crispy edges develop.
Step 5: Flip the patties, immediately add a slice of American cheese on each, and cook for an additional minute until the cheese melts.
Step 6: Spread the prepared secret sauce on both the top and bottom halves of the brioche buns, then assemble the burgers with patties and your choice of toppings like lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onions.

Tips & Variations

For an extra smoky flavor, consider using a cast iron skillet or outdoor grill that retains high heat well.
Swap American cheese for cheddar or pepper jack to change the flavor profile.
Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the secret sauce for a spicy kick.
Use potato buns or pretzel buns as an alternative bread option for different texture.

Storage

To store leftover burgers, wrap them tightly in foil or place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in a microwave to preserve moisture—avoid overheating to keep the bun from becoming soggy.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a large burger with four visible layers, starting at the bottom with a shiny toasted brioche bun. Above the bun, there are several slices of bright green pickles, followed by two thick, juicy beef patties stacked one on top of the other, each with a grill-marked surface and slightly melted cheese between them. On the top patty, there is a generous serving of creamy orange sauce with specks of herbs. The top consists of a glossy brioche bun sprinkled with white sesame seeds. The background shows a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What is the best type of ground beef for smash burgers?

Ground beef with an 80/20 fat ratio is ideal because the fat helps keep the patties juicy and flavorful while developing crisp edges when smashed.

Can I make the secret sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the secret sauce can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld and saves time on the day you cook the burgers.