What type of beef is best for a Smash Burger?

You should use beef mince with at least 20 percent fat content. This fat melts during cooking and helps create the crispy brown crust that defines a Smash Burger.

How do I stop the Smash Burger from sticking to the spatula?

You can place a square of parchment paper over the meat before you press down with the spatula. This prevents the beef from sticking and allows you to make a very thin Smash Burger without any mess.

How long does it take to make Smash Burger?

Smash Burger usually takes about 5 minutes to make. The time can vary slightly with the quantity and method. Check the texture towards the end.

Home » Meat » Mince » Smash Burger

Smash Burger

Name: Smash Burger
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2 servings
Cuisine: Smash Burger
Ingredients: 400g beef mince; 2 brioche buns; 2 slices American cheese; 1 onion; 1 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp black pepper

Smash Burger is a popular way to cook a juicy patty with a crisp outer crust. This method relies on high heat and pressing the meat thin against a hot surface. It results in a caramelised flavour that works perfectly with soft brioche buns and melted cheese. You can prepare this meal quickly for a simple lunch or dinner.

Easy Recipes

★★★★★

4.8 (19 ratings)

Share the recipe here

Why smash burger is so popular

The smash burger technique creates more surface area for the meat to brown. This browning process adds a deep savoury taste that you do not get with thicker patties. Pressing the beef thin also ensures it cooks very quickly, keeping the centre moist while the edges get crunchy. It is an easy way to achieve restaurant quality results at home.

Follow these 4 steps for smash burger

Step 1

Prepare meat: Divide the beef mince into two equal portions and roll them into loose balls. Do not press or pack the meat too tightly as you want it to stay tender. Slice the onion into very thin rings while the pan heats up.

Step 2

Heat pan: Place a large frying pan over a high heat and add the vegetable oil. Once the pan is smoking slightly, place the beef balls inside with plenty of space between them. Use a heavy spatula to press the meat down until it is very thin and flat.

Step 3

Season and cook: Sprinkle the salt and pepper over the flattened meat and place a few onion slices on top. Let the patties cook for about two minutes until the edges look dark and crispy. Use the spatula to scrape underneath the meat and flip it over carefully.

Step 4

Melt and serve: Place a slice of cheese on each patty and let it melt for one minute. Toast the brioche buns in the pan next to the meat until they are golden brown. Put the patties inside the buns and serve your smash burger immediately while hot.

Good advice for smash burger

Use beef mince with a high fat content to ensure the smash burger stays juicy during the high heat cooking process. A heavy metal spatula is essential for pressing the meat thin enough to get those characteristic crispy edges. Avoid moving the patties once you have pressed them down so the crust can develop properly.

If the meat sticks to your spatula, you can place a small piece of baking paper between the tool and the beef. Make sure your pan is very hot before you start to get the best sear. You can add extra toppings like pickles or mustard, but the basic version is already full of flavour.

You may also like stuffed white cabbage, grilled beef sirloin or pasta with tomato sauce.