Crispy and Juicy Diner-Style Smash Burgers
This classic Smash Burgers recipe delivers everything you love about an old-school diner burger right in your own kitchen. In just 20 minutes, you'll transform loose balls of 80/20 ground beef into ultra-thin patties featuring those legendary, crispy lacy edges and a shockingly juicy center!
Servings: 4 Burgers
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef 80/20
- 4 hamburger buns soft brioche or potato buns
- Salt and black pepper
Optional Toppings:
- Thinly sliced onion
- Tomatoes
For the Simple Burger Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped pickles or relish
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Divide the ground beef into 8 loosely packed balls. Do not compact them; keeping them loose helps create that crispy edge.
- Heat a grill, cast-iron skillet, or griddle over medium-high heat until very hot.
- Place 2–3 beef balls onto the hot surface. Immediately smash each one down very thin using a sturdy spatula or burger press. Press firmly to create a thin patty with craggy edges. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Cook for about 1–2 minutes, until the edges are deeply browned and crispy. Flip and immediately top with a slice of cheese (if making cheeseburgers). Cook another 30–60 seconds.
- Toast the buns lightly on the grill or skillet until golden.
- Stir together all sauce ingredients until smooth.
- Spread sauce on the buns, add the double smash patties, and top with pickles, onion, or lettuce if desired. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.