Name: Classic Smash Burger
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; 24 ounces ground beef (80/20); 8 strips bacon; 3 tablespoons butter; 4 small onions, thinly sliced; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1/4 cup BBQ sauce; 8 slices Cheddar cheese

If you’re craving the ultimate burger experience, look no further than Smash Burgers. These burgers are all about the perfect balance of crispy edges and a juicy, flavorful interior, achieved by smashing thin patties on a hot grill. Topped with crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and melted cheddar cheese, these burgers are a mouthwatering treat for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or a weekend cookout, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

I’ve made these Smash Burgers countless times, and they’re always a hit. The combination of crispy edges, melty cheese, and savory toppings is simply unbeatable.

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

Ground Beef (80/20): The ideal fat-to-meat ratio ensures juicy, flavorful patties.
Bacon: Adds a smoky, crispy texture that complements the beef perfectly.
Caramelized Onions: Sweet and savory, they add depth and richness to the burgers.
Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully over the patties, adding a creamy, tangy flavor.
BBQ Sauce: Provides a tangy, sweet glaze that enhances the overall taste.
Seasoning Blend: A mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika adds a burst of flavor to the patties.

Crafting Your Smash Burgers

Prepare the Seasoning

In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. This blend will season the beef and onions, adding layers of flavor.

Shape the Beef

Divide the ground beef into 3-ounce portions and roll them into balls. You’ll end up with 8 portions, perfect for making double-stacked burgers.

Cook the Bacon

Preheat your flat-top grill or skillet to medium heat. Cook the bacon until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Caramelize the Onions

Add butter to the grill and let it melt. Toss in the thinly sliced onions and season with a quarter of the seasoning mix. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are soft and golden brown, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from the heat and set aside.

Smash the Patties

Increase the heat to high and grease the grill with vegetable oil. Place the beef balls on the grill, seasoning side down. Using a piece of parchment paper and a heavy spatula or weight, smash each ball into a thin patty, focusing on the edges to create a lacy, crispy crust. Season the top side of the patties.

Cook and Flip

Let the patties cook for about 2 minutes, or until the edges are browned and crispy. Use a scraper to flip the patties. Brush the cooked side with BBQ sauce and immediately add a slice of cheddar cheese. Cook for another 2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.

Assemble the Burgers

For double-stacked burgers, place one patty on top of another. Serve immediately on toasted buns, topped with crispy bacon and caramelized onions.

I love adding a dollop of spicy mayo or extra BBQ sauce to my burgers for an extra kick. My family can’t get enough of these—they’re always asking for seconds!

Serving Suggestions

Classic Style

Serve the burgers on toasted buns with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and a drizzle of BBQ sauce.

With Fries

Pair the burgers with crispy fries or sweet potato fries for a complete meal.

At Cookouts

These burgers are perfect for outdoor gatherings. Set up a toppings bar with options like avocado, jalapeños, and different cheeses.

For Kids

Skip the spicy toppings and serve with ketchup and a side of fruit or veggie sticks.

Creative Variations

Spicy Kick

Add sliced jalapeños or a spicy cheese like pepper jack to the burgers.

Mushroom Lovers

Top the burgers with sautéed mushrooms for an earthy, savory twist.

Breakfast Burger

Add a fried egg and a slice of ham for a breakfast-inspired version.

Vegetarian Option

Use plant-based ground meat and vegan cheese for a meat-free alternative.

Storing and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

Wrap the cooked patties individually in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat the patties in a hot skillet or on a grill to restore their crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

Freezing

Freeze the uncooked beef balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a ziplock bag. Thaw in the fridge before cooking.

Smash Burgers are the ultimate comfort food—crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor. They’re quick to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself, these burgers are sure to satisfy. Fire up the grill, grab your favorite toppings, and get ready to enjoy the best burger of your life!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of meat?: Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but the flavor and texture will be different.
→ Can I make these burgers gluten-free?: Yes, use gluten-free buns and ensure your BBQ sauce and seasoning are gluten-free.
→ How do I store leftover burgers?: Store the patties and toppings separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat the patties in a skillet.
→ Can I cook these on a regular grill?: Yes, but a flat-top grill or skillet works best for smashing the patties.
→ What can I use instead of BBQ sauce?: You can use ketchup, mustard, or a homemade sauce as an alternative.

Smash Burger Recipe