A delightful blend of juicy beef patties, crispy onions, and homemade burger sauce that will make your taste buds sing. Perfectly cooked in a cast iron skillet, this dish embodies American comfort food and is ideal for quick lunch recipes or easy weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Scale:
1 pound ground beef (80/20 for juiciness, avoid leaner blends for optimal flavor)
1 teaspoon kosher salt (opt for coarse salt for better texture)
1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground offers the best flavor)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (for a subtle garlic kick)
¼ cup mayonnaise (use a good quality mayonnaise for the best results)
1 tablespoon ketchup (adds sweetness and moisture)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (for a tangy note)
1 teaspoon pickle relish (adds crunch and acidity; feel free to use sweet or dill relish based on preference)
Salt and pepper to taste (season according to your flavor preference)
4 slices American cheese (melts beautifully, but you can use cheddar for a sharp flavor)
1 cup crispy fried onions (adds a delightful crunch and contrast)
Pickles, lettuce, and tomatoes (optional, to taste; these can enhance freshness and texture)
4 hamburger buns (preferably brioche for its buttery richness, but sesame seed or whole wheat buns are also great alternatives)
Instructions
In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and pickle relish. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat. Form the mixture into 4 equal balls, roughly the size of a golf ball.
Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes until it is very hot.
Place a beef ball in the skillet and immediately press it down with a sturdy spatula or a burger press until it’s about ½ inch thick.
Allow the burger to cook for about 2-3 minutes without moving it. Flip the burger and immediately place a slice of cheese on top. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the inside is cooked to your desired doneness.
Slice the hamburger buns in half and toast them in the skillet or on a separate pan for about 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
Spread a generous amount of homemade burger sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place the cheesy patty on top, followed by crispy fried onions and any additional toppings you prefer such as pickles, lettuce, and tomatoes. Finish with the top bun.
Serve the Crispy Smash Burgers immediately while hot and juicy.
