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Ultimate Smash Burgers Recipe Easy Homemade Special Sauce for Summer Grilling

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These ultimate smash burgers feature a crispy crust, juicy center, melted cheddar cheese, and a tangy special sauce, perfect for summer grilling and quick dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 4 slices cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
  • 4 brioche buns, lightly toasted
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • Special Sauce:
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise (60 ml)
  • 2 tbsp ketchup (30 ml)
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (15 ml)
  • 1 tsp pickle juice (5 ml)
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • ¼ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp onion powder
  • Pinch of black pepper
  • Optional toppings: sliced pickles, shredded lettuce, tomato slices, red onion rings

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Special Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup mayo, 2 tbsp ketchup, 1 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp pickle juice, ½ tsp smoked paprika, ¼ tsp garlic powder, ¼ tsp onion powder, and a pinch of black pepper. Chill in the fridge while you prep the burgers.
  2. Divide the Beef: Divide 1 lb ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz or 113 g each). Gently roll each portion into a loose ball without overworking the meat.
  3. Toast the Buns: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Spread softened butter on the cut side of each brioche bun. Toast them butter-side down in the skillet until golden and crisp, about 1-2 minutes. Set aside.
  4. Heat the Skillet: Turn the skillet or griddle to high heat and let it get very hot.
  5. Smash the Patties: Place one beef ball on the skillet, then immediately press down hard with a spatula or burger press to flatten to about ¼ inch thick. Hold pressure for about 10 seconds to create a crust. Repeat with remaining portions.
  6. Season and Cook: Sprinkle salt and pepper on each patty. Cook without moving for 2-3 minutes until edges are brown and crispy. Flip carefully, add a slice of cheddar cheese on top, and cook another 2 minutes until cheese melts and burger is cooked through.
  7. Assemble the Burgers: Spread a generous layer of special sauce on the bottom bun. Place the cheesy patty on top, add optional toppings, and cap with the top bun.
  8. Serve Immediately: Enjoy the smash burgers hot off the skillet.

Notes

Use ground beef with at least 20% fat for juicy patties. Do not overwork the meat to avoid tough burgers. Press hard and fast to create a crispy crust. Season after smashing. Heat skillet fully before cooking. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns; for dairy-free, use vegan butter and cheese alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash burgers, special sauce, summer grilling, homemade burgers, crispy crust, juicy burgers, cheddar cheese, brioche buns

Find it online: https://forkmila.com/ultimate-smash-burgers-recipe-easy-homemade-special-sauce-for-summer-grilling/