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The Ultimate Juicy Smash Burger with Special Sauce

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This smash burger recipe delivers thin, crispy-edged patties with a juicy center, topped with a tangy special sauce. Quick and easy, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or game day gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef (80/20)
  • 4 soft hamburger buns (brioche or potato rolls)
  • 4 slices American cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon (14g) butter, softened
  • Optional toppings: pickles, sliced onion, shredded lettuce, tomato slices
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) yellow mustard
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) sweet pickle relish
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Make the special sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth. Cover and refrigerate.
  2. Prepare the beef: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 ounces or 115g each). Roll each portion into a loose ball. Season lightly with salt and pepper just before cooking.
  3. Toast the buns: Heat a separate skillet or oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread softened butter on the cut sides of the buns. Toast for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Set aside.
  4. Heat the pan: Place a cast iron skillet over high heat for at least 5 minutes until smoking hot.
  5. Smash the first patty: Place one ball of beef in the hot skillet. Place a square of parchment paper on top, then use a metal spatula to press down firmly and evenly until the patty is about 1/4 inch (6mm) thick. Hold for 10 seconds. Remove parchment.
  6. Season and cook: Sprinkle salt and pepper on the patty. Cook undisturbed for 2 minutes. Flip using a metal spatula.
  7. Add cheese: Immediately place a slice of American cheese on the patty. Cover the pan with a lid or foil for 30 seconds to melt the cheese.
  8. Repeat with remaining patties: Cook 1-2 patties at a time, not crowding the pan.
  9. Assemble the burgers: Spread special sauce on the bottom bun. Place the cheesy patty on top. Add desired toppings. Top with the other half of the bun. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, let the special sauce sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. Do not stack cooked patties to preserve the crust. Reheat leftover patties in a hot skillet or air fryer, not the microwave.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash burger, juicy burger, special sauce, homemade burger, quick dinner, game day food

Find it online: https://lenatable.com/the-ultimate-juicy-smash-burger-with-special-sauce/