If you want a quick, crispy, and cheesy burger, these smash burgers are the perfect choice. They are thin, full of flavor, and covered with melted American cheese. You can make them in just 20 minutes using a hot skillet. No grill needed!
Smash burgers are different from thick burgers. You press the beef thin while cooking, which creates crispy edges and a juicy inside. Each bite is cheesy, crispy, and full of flavor. Plus, you only need a few basic ingredients.
🧀 Why You’ll Love This Smash Burger Recipe
- Fast and easy to make in one pan
- Crispy and cheesy with every bite
- Simple ingredients that you can find at any store
- Perfect for weeknights or casual weekends
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb lean ground beef (80–85% lean for the best crisp and flavor)
- 4 hamburger buns, split and buttered or spread with mayo
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 slices deli-style American cheese
Optional Toppings:
- Lettuce (shredded or whole leaf)
- Sliced tomato
- Thinly sliced onions
- Pickles
- Burger sauce, ketchup, mustard, or mayo
🍔 How to Make Crispy Smash Burgers at Home
- Toast the Buns. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Place the buttered side of each bun down and toast until golden brown (about 1–2 minutes). Set aside.
- Form and Season the Beef. Divide the ground beef into 4 equal balls (about 4 oz each). Gently roll without overworking the meat. Season each ball generously with salt and pepper.
- Smash and Cook. Increase the skillet heat to high. Once hot, place 2 beef balls in the skillet. Use a flat metal spatula to press each ball as thin as possible. Let cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes until the edges are crispy and the patty looks cooked around the sides.
- Add Cheese and Finish. Carefully flip each patty, scraping under to keep the crust intact. Add one slice of American cheese on top. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until the cheese melts. (Repeat with the remaining beef balls).
- Assemble and Serve. Place patties on toasted bun bottoms, add your favorite toppings, and close with the top buns. Serve immediately with fries, slaw, or a salad.
🔁 Easy Variations and Pro Tips
- Double Smash. For an even crispier bite, divide the beef into 8 mini balls and cook two ultra-thin patties per burger. Stack them with cheese in the middle.
- Onion Smash. Add super thin sliced onions on top of the raw beef balls before smashing, they’ll caramelize right into the patty.
- Different cheese. Try cheddar, Swiss, Muenster, or Gouda if you prefer something other than American cheese.
- Bun tip. Stick to soft buns like potato or classic burger buns. Avoid thick buns like brioche that can overpower the thin patties.
🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Prep ahead: You can slice and store toppings like lettuce, tomato, and onion in separate containers up to 24 hours in advance.
- Leftovers: Store cooked patties separately in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before assembling.
🍟 What to Serve with Smash Burgers
Pair your burgers with one of these easy sides:
- Crispy shoestring fries
- Cajun-seasoned fries
- Creamy coleslaw
- Cucumber salad
- Sweet potato fries
- Classic potato salad
FAQs
Yes, you can use regular ground beef, but lean beef is recommended to reduce shrinkage and grease. If you prefer juicier burgers, an 80/20 mix (80% lean, 20% fat) works well but expect a bit more shrinkage.
Let the skillet cool slightly, then wipe out excess grease with a paper towel. Use warm water and a soft brush or sponge and avoid soap if possible. Dry thoroughly and apply a thin layer of oil to keep it seasoned.
Yes, you can freeze uncooked meat balls or cooked patties. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw fully before cooking or reheating.
Use a very hot skillet or griddle, about 400-450°F (204-232°C). High heat helps create the signature crispy crust quickly without overcooking the inside.
Conclusion
Smash burgers are a quick and delicious way to enjoy a crispy, cheesy burger right at home. Their thin patties cook fast, giving you perfectly crispy edges and juicy centers every time. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can make restaurant-quality smash burgers in under 20 minutes. Whether you keep toppings classic or get creative, these burgers are sure to satisfy your cravings for a flavorful, no-fuss meal.
Cheesy Smash Burgers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Place the buns cut-side down and toast until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Divide the beef into 4 equal balls. Season each one with salt and pepper.
- Turn the skillet to high heat. Place 2 beef balls in the skillet and use a flat metal spatula to press each into a thin patty.
- Cook the patties for 2 to 3 minutes until the edges are crispy and browned.
- Flip the patties and immediately top with a slice of cheese. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Transfer patties to the bottom halves of the toasted buns. Repeat with the remaining meat.
- Add your favorite toppings, close with the top bun, and serve hot.