Smash Burger

Ingredients

• 1 lb Ground Beef (75% lean / 25% fat recommended for juiciness; can use 80/20)
• 1 tsp Salt (Kosher salt preferred)
• 0.5 tsp Black Pepper (Freshly ground)
• 1 medium Yellow Onion (Thinly sliced with mandolin or knife)
• 4 slices American Cheese (Standard processed cheese, pre‑sliced)
• 4 pieces Hamburger Buns (Top and bottom buns; brioche or classic sesame works well)
• 2 tbsp Mayonnaise (Regular mayo)
• 1 tbsp Ketchup
• 1 tsp Mustard
• 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
• 1 tsp Pickle Juice (From a jar of dill pickles)
• 0.25 tsp Paprika
• 0.25 tsp Garlic Powder
• 0.25 tsp Onion Powder

Instructions

1. Prepare the Burger Sauce

   In a small bowl combine mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, pickle juice, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well and taste, adjusting salt or additional ketchup if desired.

   Time: PT2M

2. Slice the Onion

   Thinly slice the onion using a mandolin or a sharp knife into half‑moon rings.

   Time: PT3M

3. Form Beef Balls

   Divide the ground beef into four equal portions (about 4 oz each) and gently roll each portion into a loose ball. Do not over‑handle the meat.

   Time: PT2M

4. Preheat the Skillet

   Place the cast‑iron skillet over medium‑high heat and let it become very hot (a few drops of water should sizzle and evaporate instantly).

   Time: PT2M

   Temperature: medium-high

5. Cook First Side & Smash

   Add one beef ball to the skillet, season generously with salt and pepper, then immediately place a handful of sliced onion on top. Using the metal spatula, press down firmly on the ball for about 10 seconds until it flattens to a thin patty. Cook for 2‑3 minutes without moving.

   Time: PT3M

   Temperature: medium-high

6. Flip, Add Cheese & Steam Buns

   Flip the patty, season the other side, and immediately place a slice of American cheese on top. Add the top and bottom bun halves to the pan, allowing them to steam for about 30 seconds so the cheese melts and the bun softens.

   Time: PT2M

   Temperature: medium-high

7. Assemble and Serve

   Spread a generous spoonful of the prepared sauce on the bottom bun, place the cooked patty with melted cheese, add a few more onion rings if desired, then top with the bun. Repeat for remaining burgers and serve immediately.

   Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

520

Protein

26 g

Carbohydrates

42 g

Fat

26 g

Fiber

2 g