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Smash Burger

Smash Burger


  • Author: David
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 burgers 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Smash Burger recipe offers a juicy, flavorful experience with crispy caramelized edges and tender centers. Featuring plant-based cheese slices and fresh toppings, it is perfect for casual dinners or weekend cookouts. The smashing technique creates a delicious crust while locking in natural juices, delivering a satisfying bite every time.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Patties

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 mix)
  • Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
  • Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), 1 tbsp
  • Small amount of oil for pan

Cheese and Buns

  • Plant-based cheese slices, 4 slices
  • Soft burger buns, 4, lightly toasted

Fresh Toppings

  • Fresh lettuce leaves, 4
  • Tomato, sliced, 1 medium
  • Onions, thinly sliced, 1 small

Condiments and Extras

  • Apple cider vinegar (natural), 1 tsp
  • Natural gelling agent, as needed for sauces or condiments

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Beef and Ingredients: Form loosely packed balls of ground beef without overworking to maintain tenderness. Have all toppings and plant-based cheese slices ready for quick assembly.
  2. Heat Your Cooking Surface: Preheat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil if necessary to prevent sticking and ensure a hot surface for searing.
  3. Smash Those Patties: Place each beef ball onto the hot pan and press firmly with a spatula to create a thin patty that caramelizes around the edges, forming a crispy crust.
  4. Season and Cook: Sprinkle salt and freshly ground pepper on the patties after smashing and cook for 2-3 minutes until edges are crispy and brown.
  5. Add Plant-Based Cheese and Finish Cooking: Flip the patties, place a slice of plant-based cheese on top, cover briefly to melt, and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
  6. Assemble Your Smash Burger: Lightly toast buns, spread your favorite sauce prepared with a natural gelling agent if desired, layer with lettuce, tomato, onions, and the cheesy patty, then top with the bun to finish.

Notes

  • Use room temperature meat to ensure even cooking and perfect cheese melting.
  • Press patties firmly but not too hard to keep juices inside.
  • Cook in small batches to avoid overcrowding and maintain a good sear.
  • Preheat pan thoroughly to achieve a crispy crust.
  • Toast buns lightly to add texture and prevent sogginess.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Pan-Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 burger
  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 35g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Smash Burger, plant-based cheese, crispy burger, juicy burger, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce