← Back to all recipes Dinner

Classic Smash Burgers

The #3 most searched recipe of 2025! Thin, crispy-edged patties smashed on a screaming hot cast iron surface, topped with melty American cheese, and served on buttery toasted buns. Restaurant quality at home in under 15 minutes.

Prep5 mins
Cook10 mins
Serves4

Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 4 slices American cheese
  • 4 hamburger buns, split and buttered
  • Burger sauce: 1/4 cup mayo, 3 tbsp ketchup, 2 tbsp yellow mustard, 3 tbsp chopped dill pickles
  • Lettuce, tomato, red onion slices
  • Dill pickle chips

Instructions

  1. 1. Divide ground beef into 4 loosely packed balls (about 4 oz each). Do not overwork the meat.
  2. 2. Heat a cast iron skillet or griddle until very hot (smoking).
  3. 3. Place a beef ball on the hot surface and immediately smash flat with a sturdy spatula (use parchment paper to prevent sticking). Press until about 1/4-inch thin.
  4. 4. Season with salt and pepper. Cook undisturbed 2-3 minutes until deep crust forms.
  5. 5. Flip, add cheese slice, and cook 1 more minute until cheese melts.
  6. 6. Toast buns on the skillet until golden.
  7. 7. Mix burger sauce ingredients together. Spread on buns.
  8. 8. Assemble: bun, patty with cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, top bun. Serve immediately.
🍸 Suggested Cocktail Pairing
🍸
Classic Manhattan
🥃 Bourbon🥃 Whiskey

A bold spirit-forward cocktail stands up to a juicy burger's char and richness.

One of the six basic cocktails in David Embury's 1948 classic 'The Fine Art of Mixing Drinks.' Rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Ango...

View Cocktail Recipe →
← Back to all recipes

🛒 Recommended Kitchen Essentials

Instant Pot View on Amazon →
Cast Iron Skillet View on Amazon →
Spice Grinder View on Amazon →
Immersion Blender View on Amazon →

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.