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Cheeseburger with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and cheddar on a sesame bun.
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Best Homemade Smash Burgers

Juicy, crispy-edged, and packed with flavor, these quick and easy smash burgers come together in just 10 minutes for the ultimate backyard classic.
Prep Time8 minutes
Cook Time6 minutes
Total Time14 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: smash burger
Servings: 4 burgers
Calories: 488kcal
Author: Sara

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon pepper
  • 4 slices American cheese
  • 4 hamburger buns
  • Optional Toppings: lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles

Instructions

  • Place beef, salt, onion powder, and pepper in a small mixing bowl. Work together just until combined.
  • Split meat mixture into 4 equal portions and roll each into a ball.
  • Heat skillet to 375ºF.
  • Place each ball of ground beef in the preheated skillet.
  • Place a piece of parchment paper over top and smash each burger with a large spatula.
  • Cook for 2-3 minutes per side. Be sure to scrape the crust that has formed on the underside of each burger when flipping.
  • Top with your choice of toppings and enjoy.

Notes

  • Make sure it’s hot! – Always preheat your skillet or griddle so the patties sear and brown quickly without overcooking.
  • Use DIY burger wraps – Wrap burgers in parchment paper or burger wrapping for a restaurant-style feel and easier cleanup.
  • Prepare toppings ahead of time – These cook fast, so have your cheese, lettuce, tomato, and other toppings ready to go.
  • Chill the beef – Chilling the beef balls for 10–15 minutes before cooking helps them hold together better when smashed.
  • Don’t overwork the meat – Mix the seasoning in gently; overmixing can lead to dense, dry burgers.
  • Use parchment paper to smash – Placing a piece of parchment between the spatula and patty prevents sticking and gives you a smooth, even press.
  • Scrape and flip with confidence – Use a sturdy metal spatula to scrape under the crust and flip without tearing the patty.
  • Serve immediately – Smash burgers are best hot and fresh off the griddle when the edges are still crispy and the cheese is perfectly melted.

Nutrition

Calories: 488kcal | Carbohydrates: 23g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 31g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 12g | Trans Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 102mg | Sodium: 1221mg | Potassium: 395mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 200IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 305mg | Iron: 4mg