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A juicy double‑patty smash burger made with 93% lean ground beef, a regular bun, and cheese, designed to boost protein intake without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for meal‑prep or a satisfying dinner.
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Everything you need to know about this recipe
The smash burger originated in the United States in the early 2000s, popularized by fast‑casual chains that wanted a quick, juicy patty with a crisp crust. It reflects American fast‑food culture’s focus on speed, flavor, and convenience while still allowing home cooks to create a restaurant‑style burger.
Across the U.S., high‑protein burgers vary from the Texas‑style patty topped with jalapeños and cheese, to the West Coast’s avocado‑and‑sprouts version, and the Midwest’s classic cheese‑and‑onion combo. Each region tweaks the toppings and protein source while keeping the core concept of a meat‑centric sandwich.
In classic American diners, the burger is served on a soft bun with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and condiments like ketchup, mustard, or mayo, often accompanied by fries or a side salad. The focus is on a balanced bite with a juicy patty and fresh toppings.
The double smash burger is a popular choice for casual gatherings such as backyard barbecues, game‑day parties, and weekend family meals because it’s quick to prepare, crowd‑pleasing, and easy to scale up for larger groups.
Its specialness lies in the contrast between a crisp, caramelized crust created by the smash technique and a tender, protein‑dense interior, delivering a satisfying texture while providing a higher protein count than a standard burger.
Common mistakes include over‑mixing the meat, using a cold pan that doesn’t sear, pressing the patty too early or too lightly, and over‑cooking the patty which dries it out. Follow the critical steps for seasoning, hot oil, and quick flipping to avoid these issues.
Graza Sizzle olive oil has a higher smoke point than butter, allowing the patty to develop a deep crust without burning. Butter would burn at the high heat needed for a proper smash, while the oil provides flavor and a clean sear.
Yes, you can form the beef balls and freeze them raw for up to two months. Cooked patties can be refrigerated for three days in an airtight container and reheated gently in a skillet. Keep buns separate to maintain crispness.
The patty should have a dark, caramelized crust on both sides with a juicy pink interior. The cheese should be fully melted, and the bun should be lightly toasted with a golden underside. The overall burger should feel sturdy yet tender when bitten.
The YouTube channel Ethan Chlebowski specializes in practical nutrition advice, high‑protein meal planning, and easy‑to‑follow cooking tutorials that focus on sustainable, affordable ways to eat more protein without relying on supplements.
Ethan Chlebowski emphasizes flexible protein prep, modular meal building, and a grocery‑loop system that reduces waste and cost, whereas many other channels focus on single‑recipe meal prep or high‑tech gadgetry. His style is grounded in everyday kitchen tools and realistic grocery shopping habits.
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