Smash Burger
Smash Burger is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 520 calories per serving. Recipe by Derek Chen on YouTube.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 8 min | Total: 23 min
Cost: $7.96 total, $1.99 per serving
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
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
Slice the Onion
Thinly slice the onion using a mandolin or a sharp knife into half‑moon rings.
Time: PT3M
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
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
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
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
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
Dietary info: Contains meat, Contains gluten, Contains dairy
Allergens: Gluten, Dairy, Egg (mayonnaise), Mustard
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Ground Beef: Ground turkey, Ground chicken
- Instead of Salt: Sea salt
- Instead of Yellow Onion: White onion, Red onion
- Instead of American Cheese: Cheddar, Swiss
- Instead of Hamburger Buns: Potato rolls, Gluten‑free buns
- Instead of Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt, Aioli
- Instead of Ketchup: Tomato sauce
- Instead of Mustard: Dijon mustard, Spicy brown mustard
- Instead of Worcestershire Sauce: Soy sauce (less sweet)
- Instead of Pickle Juice: Apple cider vinegar
- Instead of Paprika: Smoked paprika
- Instead of Garlic Powder: Fresh minced garlic (use less)
- Instead of Onion Powder: Finely minced fresh onion (use less)
Equipment Needed
- Cast Iron Skillet
- Metal Spatula
- Chef Knife
- Cutting Board
- Mixing Bowl
- Small Bowl or Ramekin
- Plate for Serving (optional)
- Tongs (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Forming the beef balls without over‑working the meat
- Ensuring the skillet is extremely hot before adding the meat
- Smashing the patty firmly and quickly to achieve a thin crust
- Flipping and adding cheese at the right moment to avoid over‑cooking
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use a buttered bun for extra flavor and a glossy finish.
- For extra juiciness, add a tiny knob of butter to the pan just before smashing.
- If you like extra tang, drizzle a little extra pickle juice onto the cooked patty.
Troubleshooting
Patty does not develop a crust.
Make sure the skillet is fully pre‑heated and press the meat quickly; a cooler pan will steam rather than sear.
Burger is overcooked inside.
Cook only 2‑3 minutes per side; the patty is thin and finishes quickly.
Onion slices burn before the meat is done.
Add the onions after the first minute of cooking, or lower the heat slightly when the pan starts to smoke.
Storage
Refrigerator: Cooked burgers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Uncooked beef balls freeze well for up to 2 months; thaw before cooking.
Room temperature: Assembled burgers should not sit out longer than 2 hours for safety.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the burger sauce up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate.
- Form the beef balls, cover, and keep them chilled until ready to cook.
- Slice the onions ahead of time and store in a sealed container.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of smash burgers in American cuisine?
Smash burgers originated in the fast‑casual burger scene of the United States, especially on the West Coast, where chefs discovered that smashing a thin patty creates a caramelized crust and maximizes flavor while keeping costs low. The technique has become a staple of modern American burger joints and is celebrated for its simplicity and bold texture.
How does the smash burger differ from a traditional thick‑patty hamburger in American cooking?
A smash burger is pressed thin on a hot griddle, producing a crisp, Maillard‑rich crust, whereas a traditional hamburger is formed thicker and cooked more slowly, resulting in a juicier interior but less crust. The thin shape also allows the meat to cook in under five minutes, making it ideal for quick meals.
What regional variations of smash burgers exist within the United States?
In California, smash burgers often feature avocado and pepper jack cheese, while in the Midwest they may be topped with caramelized onions and cheddar. Some Southern versions add a slice of pickles and a drizzle of hot sauce, reflecting local flavor preferences.
What occasions or celebrations are smash burgers traditionally associated with in American culture?
Smash burgers are popular at casual gatherings such as backyard barbecues, sports‑watch parties, and quick weeknight dinners. Their fast preparation makes them a go‑to choice for informal celebrations where speed and flavor matter.
What authentic traditional ingredients are used in a classic American smash burger versus common substitutes?
The classic version uses 75/25 ground beef, American cheese, a simple mayo‑ketchup‑mustard sauce, and a soft bun. Substitutes like ground turkey, cheddar cheese, or whole‑grain buns are acceptable but change the traditional flavor profile.
What other American side dishes pair well with smash burgers?
Crispy French fries, sweet potato wedges, coleslaw, or a simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complement the rich, savory flavor of smash burgers and complete a classic American meal.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making smash burgers at home?
Common errors include using a cold pan, over‑handling the meat, not smashing hard enough, and cooking the patty too long. Each mistake prevents the formation of the signature crust and can lead to a dry burger.
Why does this smash burger recipe use a hot cast‑iron skillet instead of a non‑stick pan?
A cast‑iron skillet retains and distributes high heat better than a non‑stick surface, which is essential for achieving the rapid sear and crust that defines a smash burger. Non‑stick pans tend to steam rather than sear, resulting in a softer patty.
Can I make the smash burgers ahead of time and how should I store them?
Yes, you can form the beef balls and keep them refrigerated for up to 24 hours, or freeze them for up to two months. Cooked patties can be stored in the fridge for three days and reheated briefly in a skillet; however, they are best served fresh for optimal texture.
What does the YouTube channel Derek Chen specialize in?
The YouTube channel Derek Chen focuses on fast, practical home‑cooking videos that deliver tasty meals in 30 minutes or less, emphasizing straightforward techniques and everyday ingredients.
How does the YouTube channel Derek Chen's approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?
Derek Chen prioritizes speed without sacrificing flavor, often using minimal equipment and providing clear, step‑by‑step visual cues. Unlike many channels that showcase elaborate plating, his videos aim for quick, family‑friendly dishes that anyone can replicate at home.
Last updated: September 3, 2026
