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Smash Burgers: 4 Amazing Juicy Diner Burgers

Smash Burgers (Juicy Diner-Style Burgers at Home)

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Create juicy diner-style smash burgers at home with crispy edges. This recipe focuses on achieving that classic, flattened burger experience.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 4 slices American cheese
  • 4 hamburger buns
  • Butter, for toasting buns
  • Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, ketchup, mustard

Instructions

  1. Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Gently form each portion into a loose ball. Do not overwork the meat.
  2. Preheat your griddle or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Lightly butter the cut sides of the hamburger buns and toast them on the griddle until golden brown. Set aside.
  4. Place the beef balls on the hot griddle, leaving space between them.
  5. Immediately smash each ball down firmly with a sturdy spatula, creating a thin patty with crispy edges.
  6. Season the tops of the patties generously with salt and pepper.
  7. Cook for 1-2 minutes without moving, until the edges are browned and crispy.
  8. Flip the patties. Season the other side with salt and pepper.
  9. Immediately top each patty with a slice of American cheese.
  10. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the burger is cooked through.
  11. Assemble the burgers: place a cooked patty on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Add your favorite toppings and the top bun.

Notes

  • Use a spatula with a wide surface to ensure a good smash.
  • Don’t press down too hard after the initial smash, or you’ll squeeze out the juices.
  • Work quickly once the patties are smashed to achieve the best crust.

Nutrition