Satisfy your cravings with this timeless smash burger, rich in flavor and history, cooked on a cast-iron skillet.
Did you know?
The act of smashing burgers became popular during the Great Depression, since it was a way to make a juicy burger with less meat.
Imagine the rhythmic sounds of a bustling American diner, where the Simple Smash Burger has become an emblem of comfort food. Originating from the Midwest, this culinary icon has danced through time on griddles across the country, winning hearts with its crispy edges and juicy center. It's an homage to the efficiency of the 1950s, when smashing the patty ensured quicker cook times and flavor-packed bites. In your own kitchen, you'll recreate the magic with a sizzling cast-iron skillet, a culinary stage that's perfect for infusing that irresistible charred taste.
In this recipe, we'll embrace the art of minimalism seen in those timeless dinettes. Only a few high-quality ingredients will be needed to let each element shine: rich, succulent beef, a soft bun, and a simple selection of toppings. By harnessing the power of the smash, you'll create a crust that's as textured as a culinary fingerprint, unique to your own creation.
Ingredients
Gather your ingredients and prepare to embark on a journey through America's heartland with every bite of these delectable smash burgers.
The savory ground beef with 20% fat creates not only a juicy patty but also that highly sought-after crispy edge when smashed onto the cast-iron.
- 400g ground beef (20% fat content for juiciness)
- 4 soft hamburger buns
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 pickles, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 2 teaspoons mustard
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for the skillet
Steps
Follow these steps like a culinary script, each movement vital to creating a symphony of flavors and textures in your very own classic smash burger.
- Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions without overworking the meat. Roll them lightly into balls.
- Preheat your cast-iron skillet on high heat. Brush with a light layer of vegetable oil.
- Place one ball of meat onto the skillet. Immediately smash it down with a sturdy spatula or burger press, flattening it to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Season the patty with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottom starts to develop a deep brown crust.
- Carefully flip the patty over, then immediately place a slice of cheddar cheese on top. Cook for another minute until the cheese is melted and the other side is browned.
- Repeat with the remaining beef balls.
- Lightly toast the buns on the skillet.
- Spread mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard on the buns. Build your burger with the patty, sliced onions, and pickles.
- Serve immediately while still piping hot and enjoy.
Add some extra love
For an epic crust, press the patties firmly and quickly. The less handling of the meat, the better the texture.
Recipe Remix:
Your Twist, Your Taste
Whether you would like to swap out an ingredient, make it vegan, or just mix things up, let's get creative and remix this recipe!
Your kitchen, your rules. Let's play.
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