• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Run Lift Eat Repeat

  • About
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers & Snacks
    • Breakfast
      • Breads
      • Donuts
      • Eggs
      • French Toast
      • Muffins
      • Pancakes
    • Dessert
      • Brownies & Bars
      • Cakes & Pies
      • Cookies
      • Cupcakes
    • Dietary
      • Dairy-Free
      • Gluten-Free
      • Paleo
      • Vegan
      • Vegetarian
    • Dinner & Sides
    • Holidays
      • Christmas
      • Easter
      • Fourth of July
      • Labor Day
      • Memorial Day
      • Thanksgiving
    • Savory
      • Beef
      • Chicken
      • Fish
      • Pasta
      • Soups
      • Turkey
    • Method
      • One Pan
      • Instant Pot
      • Slow Cooker
  • Extra
    • Baby
  • Shop
  • Work With Me
menu icon
go to homepage
subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • RECIPES
  • SHOP MY FAVORITES
  • ABOUT ME
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • ×

    The Best Smash Burger Recipe

    This post may contain affiliate sales links. This website generates income via ads. Please see our full privacy policy for details.

    Jump to Recipe
    The best smash burger recipe— zero exaggeration! These burgers are incredibly juicy, perfectly crispy, smothered in cheese, and topped with a hefty amount of secret sauce. Serve between a toasted brioche bun and this is truly the ultimate smash burger recipe.
    The best smash burger recipe— zero exaggeration! These burgers are incredibly juicy, perfectly crispy, smothered in cheese, and topped with a hefty amount of secret sauce. Serve between a toasted brioche bun and this is truly the ultimate smash burger recipe.
    The best smash burger recipe— zero exaggeration! These burgers are incredibly juicy, perfectly crispy, smothered in cheese, and topped with a hefty amount of secret sauce. Serve between a toasted brioche bun and this is truly the ultimate smash burger recipe.
    The best smash burger recipe— zero exaggeration! These burgers are incredibly juicy, perfectly crispy, smothered in cheese, and topped with a hefty amount of secret sauce. Serve between a toasted brioche bun and this is truly the ultimate smash burger recipe.
    The best smash burger recipe— zero exaggeration! These burgers are incredibly juicy, perfectly crispy, smothered in cheese, and topped with a hefty amount of secret sauce. Serve between a toasted brioche bun and this is truly the ultimate smash burger recipe.
    The best smash burger recipe— zero exaggeration! These burgers are incredibly juicy, perfectly crispy, smothered in cheese, and topped with a hefty amount of secret sauce. Serve between a toasted brioche bun and this is truly the ultimate smash burger recipe.
    The best smash burger recipe— zero exaggeration! These burgers are incredibly juicy, perfectly crispy, smothered in cheese, and topped with a hefty amount of secret sauce. Serve between a toasted brioche bun and this is truly the ultimate smash burger recipe.
    The best smash burger recipe— zero exaggeration! These burgers are incredibly juicy, perfectly crispy, smothered in cheese, and topped with a hefty amount of secret sauce. Serve between a toasted brioche bun and this is truly the ultimate smash burger recipe.
    The best smash burger recipe— zero exaggeration! These burgers are incredibly juicy, perfectly crispy, smothered in cheese, and topped with a hefty amount of secret sauce. Serve between a toasted brioche bun and this is truly the ultimate smash burger recipe.

    The best smash burger recipe— zero exaggeration! These burgers are incredibly juicy, perfectly crispy, smothered in cheese, and topped with a hefty amount of secret sauce. Serve between a toasted brioche bun and this is truly the ultimate smash burger recipe.

    The best smash burger recipe— zero exaggeration! These burgers are incredibly juicy, perfectly crispy, smothered in cheese, and topped with a hefty amount of secret sauce. Serve between a toasted brioche bun and this is truly the ultimate smash burger recipe.

    When I'm craving a meal that's truly comforting, this smash burger recipe hits the spot. It satisfies— and, is shockingly simple to throw together.

    The smash burger: perfectly crispy, incredibly juicy, squashed burger patty. It's an absolute game changer. Now, if you've never ventured into a Shake Shack or SmashBurger or something similar, then it's possible that you're confused right about now. Let'd dive in.

    The best smash burger recipe— zero exaggeration! These burgers are incredibly juicy, perfectly crispy, smothered in cheese, and topped with a hefty amount of secret sauce. Serve between a toasted brioche bun and this is truly the ultimate smash burger recipe.

    What Is A Smash Burger?

    The difference between a smash burger and regular burger is how they are cooked— the ingredients are relatively the same thing.

    But it's exactly as described. It starts with a ball, not a patty, of very cold beef, and then it is literally smashed on a very hot griddle. This is quick-sear the burger to a crisp on the outside in it's own fats, making it perfectly cooked on the inside, keeping it juicy and full of flavor.

    The best smash burger recipe— zero exaggeration! These burgers are incredibly juicy, perfectly crispy, smothered in cheese, and topped with a hefty amount of secret sauce. Serve between a toasted brioche bun and this is truly the ultimate smash burger recipe.

    Let's Talk About The Secret Sauce

    This sauce is incredible— pure magic.

    There's 8 ingredients, most of which you probably have already: mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, red onion, paprika, and salt.

    It's one of those sauces that you can use on a variety of items, whether it's a burger, wrap or a sandwich. It's THAT good— you'll want it on everything!

    Smash Burger Recipe Ingredients

    • Beef: To guarantee flavor, you want to use 80/20 beef. I actually prefer to use 1 pound 80/20 with 1 pound 90/10.
    • Butter: While the butter helps keep the burger tender and juicy, it also adds tons of flavor.
    • Worcestershire, Paprika & Salt: All 3 of these add layers of flavor within the burger.
    • Cheese: Use what you prefer— I love using a thicker cut of sharp cheddar cheese.
    • Buns: Brioche! Brioche! Brioche!
    The best smash burger recipe— zero exaggeration! These burgers are incredibly juicy, perfectly crispy, smothered in cheese, and topped with a hefty amount of secret sauce. Serve between a toasted brioche bun and this is truly the ultimate smash burger recipe.
    The best smash burger recipe— zero exaggeration! These burgers are incredibly juicy, perfectly crispy, smothered in cheese, and topped with a hefty amount of secret sauce. Serve between a toasted brioche bun and this is truly the ultimate smash burger recipe.
    The best smash burger recipe— zero exaggeration! These burgers are incredibly juicy, perfectly crispy, smothered in cheese, and topped with a hefty amount of secret sauce. Serve between a toasted brioche bun and this is truly the ultimate smash burger recipe.
    The best smash burger recipe— zero exaggeration! These burgers are incredibly juicy, perfectly crispy, smothered in cheese, and topped with a hefty amount of secret sauce. Serve between a toasted brioche bun and this is truly the ultimate smash burger recipe.

    How To Make A Smash Burger

    1. Start with the secret sauce— this is to let the flavors develop. Whisk together the ingredients together in a small bowl. Set aside in the refrigerator.
    2. Place the ground beef to a large bowl. Add the butter, Worcestershire, paprika, and salt. Mix together with your hands to get it well-distributed. Form into 8-10 balls, depending on the size of the burgers you prefer. Place the balls in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes— this will allow the flavors to develop and the butter to harden. Or you can even put them in the freezer for 10-15 minutes.
    3. Heat a cast iron pan or griddle over medium-high heat for 5 minutes— you want it to be VERY hot. Cut a couple pieces of parchment paper. You'll use these on the burgers when pressing down to prevent sticking. Place a couple of the burger balls on the hot surface. Place the parchment paper on each burger and then, using a heavy, flat tool, press the burgers down as flat as you can get them. (It's ideal to use a cast iron grill press, but a flat spatula works too— it's what I use!) The burgers will be sizzling and can splatter a bit.
    4. Cook the burgers for 2-3 minutes, then flip and top with cheese. Leave for an additional 1-2 minutes to melt the cheese— you can also place a small lid on top to let steam help melt the cheese. Then, assemble your burgers!
    The best smash burger recipe— zero exaggeration! These burgers are incredibly juicy, perfectly crispy, smothered in cheese, and topped with a hefty amount of secret sauce. Serve between a toasted brioche bun and this is truly the ultimate smash burger recipe.

    More Recipes To Try

    • The Best Black Bean Burger
    • Turkey Burgers (That Aren't Dry!)
    • Crispy Quinoa Patties
    • Roasted Vegetables Pasta Salad
    • Baked Herb Crusted Salmon
    The best smash burger recipe— zero exaggeration! These burgers are incredibly juicy, perfectly crispy, smothered in cheese, and topped with a hefty amount of secret sauce. Serve between a toasted brioche bun and this is truly the ultimate smash burger recipe.

    The Best Smash Burger Recipe

    Prep Time: 20 minutes
    Cook Time: 5 minutes
    Total Time: 25 minutes
    Yield: 8 burgers
    Print Pin

    Rate the Recipe:


    Description

    The best smash burger recipe— zero exaggeration! These burgers are incredibly juicy, perfectly crispy, smothered in cheese, and topped with a hefty amount of secret sauce. Serve between a toasted brioche bun and this is truly the ultimate smash burger recipe.

    Ingredients

    Burgers

    • 2 pounds ground beef
    • 5 Tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
    • 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
    • 1 and 1/2 teaspoons paprika
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 8 slices cheese
    • 8 Brioche buns
    • Toppings: lettuce, onions, tomato, pickles, etc.

    Secret Sauce

    • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
    • 3 Tablespoons ketchup
    • 1 and 1/4 teaspoons horseradish
    • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
    • 2 Tablespoons minced or grated red onion
    • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
    • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt

    Instructions

    • Start with the secret sauce— this is to let the flavors develop. Whisk together the ingredients together in a small bowl. Set aside in the refrigerator.
    • Place the ground beef to a large bowl. Add the butter, Worcestershire, paprika, and salt. Mix together with your hands to get it well-distributed. Form into 8-10 balls, depending on the size of the burgers you prefer. Place the balls in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes— this will allow the flavors to develop and the butter to harden. Or you can even put them in the freezer for 10-15 minutes.
    • Heat a cast iron pan or griddle over medium-high heat for 5 minutes— you want it to be VERY hot. Cut a couple pieces of parchment paper. You'll use these on the burgers when pressing down to prevent sticking. Place a couple of the burger balls on the hot surface. Place the parchment paper on each burger and then, using a heavy, flat tool, press the burgers down as flat as you can get them. (It's ideal to use a cast iron grill press, but a flat spatula works too— it's what I use!) The burgers will be sizzling and can splatter a bit.
    • Cook the burgers for 2-3 minutes, then flip and top with cheese. Leave for an additional 1-2 minutes to melt the cheese— you can also place a small lid on top to let steam help melt the cheese. Then, assemble your burgers!
    • Burgers stay fresh when stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat to your liking.

    Notes

    1. Make Ahead & Freezing Instructions: You can prep the beef ahead of time— combine together and let it sit in the refrigerator for up to 1 day either (pre-rolled or in balls.) The beef balls can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
    2. Burgers: Depending on the size of the burgers, you can put 1-2 burgers on each bun. 
    3. Beef: To guarantee flavor, you want to use 80/20 beef. I actually prefer to use 1 pound 80/20 with 1 pound 90/10.
    Did you make this recipe?Mention @runlifteatrepeatblog or tag #runliftandeat!

    More Beef

    • These garlic herb butter steak bites with potatoes are an incredibly simple meal that is flavor packed and made in one pan. Paired with a salad, this is a meal that the entire family with love!
      Garlic Herb Butter Steak Bites
    • A quick and easy dinner that delivers! This Korean beef recipe, a dish made from pantry ingredients and done in under 25 minutes. Serve over white rice, garnished with sesame seeds for a flavorful meal.
      Korean Beef Recipe
    • I'm singing all the songs for this sausage stuffed peppers recipe because it's THE dinner recipe to make this week. Featuring a flavorful filling that's made with ground sausage, onions, mushrooms, garlic, herbs, chicken broth, and quinoa. It's a hearty dinner recipe that the whole family will love!
      Sausage Stuffed Peppers
    • I present to you the best meatloaf recipe— it's tender, juicy, loaded with flavor and topped with unique but delicious glaze. This meatloaf recipe is easy to make and ready in less than an hour! It's a recipe that your entire family with find comfort in.
      The Best Meatloaf Recipe

    You Might Also Like...

    These slow cooker buffalo chicken sliders are an instant crowd-pleaser. Toss the ingredients together in a slow cooker and let it do 99% of the work for you! Your guests will be coming back for more— perfect for game days!

    Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Sliders

    The best smash burger recipe— zero exaggeration! These burgers are incredibly juicy, perfectly crispy, smothered in cheese, and topped with a hefty amount of secret sauce. Serve between a toasted brioche bun and this is truly the ultimate smash burger recipe.

    The Best Smash Burger Recipe

    Add this cheesy rotini pasta with roasted vegetables to your dinner menu! Combined together in a pot— rotini pasta, melted cheese, rich marinara sauce, and roasted vegetables. It adds a twist to a classic pasta dish that the entire family will love!

    Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Roasted Vegetables

    Easy Peanut Butter Granola

    Reader Interactions

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Rate this recipe




    Primary Sidebar

    Hi, I'm Christina! I’m a cook, baker, photographer, and fitness enthusiast. I started this space to share the truth, the fails, the struggles, and the triumphs about my weight loss journey. It later turned into a way to also share healthier recipes.

    More About Christina →

    Trending Right Now

    • These easy to make cookie dough protein bites are made from just 6 basic ingredients and taste just like cookie dough. Perfect on-the-go or pre-workout snack!
      Cookie Dough Protein Bites
    • This creamy mushroom pasta recipe is an easy weeknight meal that's ready in just 30 minutes! The mushroom sauce is heavenly — it's bright, flavorful, tons of garlic and incredibly creamy.
      Creamy Mushroom Pasta
    • These gluten-free pancakes are light and fluffy, just like all pancakes should be. Load them with the add-ins of your choice!
      Gluten-Free Pancakes
    • This avocado egg toast is a simple breakfast that takes just 10 minutes. With just 5 ingredients, this breakfast will keep you full for hours!
      10-Minute Avocado Egg Toast
    • These big fat soft-baked chocolate chip cookies are thick and slightly crispy around the edges. The secret for the chewiest chocolate chip cookie texture is more brown sugar than granulated sugar, an extra egg yolk, plus a little cornstarch! No chilling required!
      Soft-Baked Chocolate Chip Cookies
    • This banana pudding pie recipe combines a crunchy cookie crust, soft and sweet vanilla pudding, thick slices of bananas, layers of Nilla Wafers, and a mountain of homemade whipped cream. Everyone who tried a slice instantly loved it.
      The Easiest Banana Pudding Pie
    • These soft and chewy oatmeal cookies have that classic homemade flavor—made with no refined sugar, hearty oats, and whole wheat flour. Your family will fall in love with this recipe.
      Healthier Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Cookies
    • When you're craving donuts but want to make them at home without all the work— these glazed donuts save the day! This glazed donut recipe is incredibly simple, 35 minutes start to finish, and are baked, not fried. Perfect for the weekend or even during the week!
      Easy Baked Glazed Donuts

    Recent Recipes

    • These buffalo chicken sliders are an instant crowd-pleaser. Toss the ingredients together in a slow cooker and let it do 99% of the work for you! Your guests will be coming back for more— perfect for game days!
      Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Sliders
    • Add this cheesy rotini pasta with roasted vegetables to your dinner menu! Combined together in a pot— rotini pasta, melted cheese, rich marinara sauce, and roasted vegetables. It adds a twist to a classic pasta dish that the entire family will love!
      Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Roasted Vegetables
    • This homemade peanut butter granola is satisfying and delicious. Made with basic pantry ingredients— oats, cinnamon, coconut oil, honey, and maple syrup. With tons of flavor in each bite, you'll keep coming back for more!
      Easy Peanut Butter Granola
    • This creamy roasted red pepper pasta stands above the rest— easy to pull together and quick for busy nights. With roasting the peppers, onions and garlic, there's layers of flavor with minimal ingredients. A must-try recipe that the family will love!
      Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    About

    • Meet Christina
    • Privacy Policy

    Newsletter

    • Sign Up! to get recipes to your inbox for FREE!

    Contact

    • Contact
    • Work With Me

    This website earns from qualifying purchases from affiliate links and generates income via ads.

    Copyright © 2023 Run Lift Eat Repeat on the Foodie Pro Theme