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Smash Burger with Secret Sauce stacked with melted cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and pickles.

Ultimate Smash Burger with Secret Sauce

The ultimate smash burger is a crispy-on-the-outside, juicy-on-the-inside burger topped with melted cheese and a tangy, creamy secret sauce. This homemade recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen with easy-to-follow steps and fresh ingredients, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. The combination of crispy edges, juicy beef, and flavorful toppings ensures every bite is irresistible.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 4 slices cheddar cheese
  • 4 burger buns, lightly toasted
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped pickles or relish
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lettuce leaves
  • Tomato slices
  • Red onion slices
  • Pickles
  • Crispy bacon strips

Method
 

  1. Prepare your ingredients by dividing ground beef into four equal portions and loosely roll into balls. Mix the secret sauce in a small bowl until smooth and set aside. Toast burger buns lightly.
  2. Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Place a beef ball on the skillet and immediately smash it down to about 1/4 inch thick. Cook for two to three minutes without moving. Flip, add cheese, and cook for another one to two minutes. Repeat for all patties.
  3. Assemble the smash burger by spreading secret sauce on the bottom bun, adding lettuce, tomato, and the cheese-topped patty. Top with onion slices, pickles, and bacon if desired, then place the top bun on the burger.

Notes

  • Use high heat to achieve crispy edges.
  • Do not overwork the beef to keep patties tender and juicy.
  • Customize toppings with avocado, jalapeños, or mushrooms for added flavor.
  • Toast buns to prevent sogginess.
  • Make extra secret sauce for dipping fries or spreading on other sandwiches.