Smash Burger with Mayo-Toast Buns and AB's Signature Sauce

Ingredients

• 0.5 lb Ground beef (80/20) (80% lean, 20% fat for juiciness; form into 4‑oz balls)
• 2 pieces Brioche buns (Soft, buttery buns; can use potato rolls if unavailable)
• 2 tbsp Mayonnaise (For spreading on buns before toasting)
• 2 slices American cheese slices (Melted on the patty just before flipping)
• 4 slices Sweet pickles (Adds tangy crunch; can use dill or bread‑and‑butter pickles)
• 1 tsp Garlic powder
• 1 tsp Onion powder
• 1 tsp Paprika
• 0.5 tsp Dried oregano
• 0.25 tsp Cayenne pepper (Optional for a mild heat)
• 1 tsp Kosher salt (Coarse grind preferred)
• 1 tsp Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp Ketchup
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 2 strips Bacon strips (Optional; cook crisp and add on top)
• 1 tbsp Canola oil (High smoke‑point oil for searing)

Instructions

1. Mix Burger Seasoning

   Combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), kosher salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Stir until evenly mixed.

   Time: PT2M

2. Form 4‑oz Beef Balls

   Divide the 0.5 lb ground beef into two equal portions. Gently roll each portion into a smooth 4‑oz ball without over‑working the meat.

   Time: PT5M

3. Preheat Skillet

   Place the cast‑iron skillet on high heat and let it become very hot (smoke point). Add 1 tbsp canola oil and swirl to coat.

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: High heat

4. Toast Buns with Mayo

   Spread 1 tbsp mayo on each cut side of the brioche buns. When the skillet is hot, place the buns cut‑side down and toast until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side.

   Time: PT4M

   Temperature: High heat

5. Cook Bacon (Optional)

   If using bacon, add the strips to the skillet after the buns are removed. Cook until crisp, about 5 minutes, then transfer to paper towels.

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: Medium‑high heat

6. Smash First Patty

   Place one beef ball in the hot skillet. Let it sizzle for 10‑15 seconds, then cover with a piece of parchment paper and press down firmly with the press or a second spatula until the patty is about ¼‑inch thick.

   Time: PT2M

   Temperature: High heat

7. Season and Add Cheese

   Sprinkle a generous pinch of the prepared burger seasoning over the smashed patty. Place one slice of American cheese on top.

   Time: PT1M

8. Flip Patty

   When the edges start to bubble and the underside has a deep brown crust (about 2‑3 minutes), slide a sturdy spatula under the patty and flip it. Cook the second side for another 1‑2 minutes until the cheese is fully melted.

   Time: PT3M

   Temperature: Medium‑high heat

9. Repeat for Second Patty

   Repeat steps 6‑8 with the remaining beef ball, seasoning, and cheese.

   Time: PT8M

   Temperature: High heat

10. Mix AB Signature Sauce

    In a small bowl, combine 1 tbsp mayo, 1 tbsp ketchup, and 1 tsp Dijon mustard. Stir until smooth.

    Time: PT2M

11. Assemble Burgers

    Spread a generous layer of the signature sauce on the bottom toasted bun. Place the cooked patty with melted cheese, add 2 slices of sweet pickles, and optional crisp bacon. Top with the other bun half.

    Time: PT3M

12. Serve

    Serve the smash burgers immediately with your favorite side (air‑fried fries recommended). Enjoy!

    Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

710

Protein

35 g

Carbohydrates

45 g

Fat

35 g

Fiber

2 g