The perfect burger is a staple of American cuisine, and there are endless variations on how to prepare it.
However, there is nothing quite like a juicy and flavorful smash burger made at home.
This type of burger is cooked by smashing the patty onto the griddle, which creates a crispy exterior while keeping the meat tender and juicy on the inside.
Making a perfectly juicy smash burger at home requires a few tips and tricks that we will discuss in this article.
History
The origins of smash burgers can be traced back to 1930s America when fast-food chains started popping up across the country.
The first chain to serve smash burgers was White Castle, which used a unique technique to quickly cook small, square burgers on a griddle before serving them with onions and pickles.
Today, smash burgers are still popular in fast-food chains and have gained popularity among home cooks who want to recreate this iconic burger at home.
Prep Time and What to Expect
The prep time for making a smash burger is minimal, and the actual cooking time is only a few minutes per patty.
To make a perfectly juicy smash burger, you will need a cast-iron skillet or griddle, ground beef, buns, cheese, and your favorite toppings.
When cooking on a griddle, it’s important to preheat the surface to a high temperature before cooking the patties.
You should also have your toppings prepped and ready to go so that you can assemble the burgers as soon as they come off the griddle.
Ingredients
To make the best smash burger, you will need high-quality ground beef with at least 20% fat content.
The fat content is essential for creating a juicy and flavorful burger.
You can also experiment with different types of beef, such as grass-fed or wagyu, depending on your preference.
Other ingredients you will need include buns, cheese, pickles, onions, lettuce, tomato, ketchup, mustard, and mayo.
The Best Recipe
To make the best smash burger, start by dividing your ground beef into 3-ounce portions.
Roll each portion into a ball and flatten it into a thin patty, about ¼ inch thick.
Preheat your griddle or cast-iron skillet to high heat and place the patties on the surface.
Use a spatula or a flat-bottomed object to press down on the patties, smashing them into the griddle.
Cook for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until the patties are browned and crispy on the outside.
Add cheese to each patty during the last minute of cooking and let it melt.
Toast the buns on the same griddle and assemble the burgers with your favorite toppings.
How to Serve
Smash burgers are best served hot off the griddle, straight onto a bun.
You can keep it simple with just cheese and pickles or go all out with a variety of toppings.
Some popular toppings include bacon, avocado, fried egg, jalapenos, and various sauces.
Serve your smash burgers with a side of fries or onion rings for a complete meal.
FAQ
Can I use a regular frying pan instead of a griddle?
Yes, you can use a regular frying pan, but a griddle will produce better results since it has a large, flat cooking surface.
Can I freeze leftover smash burgers?
Yes, you can freeze leftover smash burgers in an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm up in a toaster oven or microwave.
What’s the best type of cheese to use for a smash burger?
The most popular cheese for smash burgers is American cheese, but you can use any type of cheese you like, such as cheddar, pepper jack, or blue cheese.
Conclusion
Making a perfectly juicy smash burger at home is easier than you may think.
By following the tips and recipe outlined in this article, you can create a mouth-watering burger that will rival any fast-food chain.
Remember to use high-quality ingredients and experiment with toppings to find your favorite combination.
With a few simple steps, you can wow your family and friends with your delicious homemade smash burgers.
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