Juicy Smashburger Cheeseburgers

When it comes to burgers, smashburgers are in a league of their own. Thin, crispy-edged patties that are seared to golden perfection on a hot griddle, smashed flat so they cook fast and develop that crave-worthy crust—it’s everything a cheeseburger should be. Unlike thick burgers that focus on juiciness from the inside, smashburgers get their flavor from that browned, caramelized exterior. Add melted American cheese, a soft buttered bun, and your favorite toppings, and you’ve got yourself a burger that’s not only bold and beefy but totally unforgettable. Smashburgers are fast, flavorful, and just the right amount of messy.

Whether you’re making a single, a double, or going full diner-style stack, this recipe gives you the perfect balance of crispy edges and juicy centers. They’re simple to make but feel gourmet, and once you master the smash technique, you’ll never go back to regular burgers again.

Ingredients

For the Patties:
• 1½ lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor and moisture)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional: garlic powder or burger seasoning blend

For the Build:
• 4 soft burger buns (potato buns, brioche, or sesame seed)
• 4 slices American cheese or cheddar
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, for toasting buns
• Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, sliced tomato, sliced pickles, red onion, ketchup, mustard, mayo, burger sauce

Optional Burger Sauce (Mix Together):
• ¼ cup mayo
• 1 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp mustard
• 1 tsp relish
• Dash of garlic powder and smoked paprika

Instructions

Prep the Patties:

1. Divide the ground beef into 8 loosely packed 3-ounce balls if making doubles or 4 large balls for singles. Do not overwork the meat—keep it airy and loose for that iconic smashburger texture.
2. Preheat a heavy griddle, cast-iron skillet, or flat-top grill over high heat until it’s smoking hot.

Toast the Buns:

1. Melt butter in a skillet or on the griddle and toast the inside of each bun half until golden brown. Set aside.

Smash and Sear the Burgers:

1. Place a beef ball onto the hot surface and immediately smash it flat using a stiff metal spatula (or two spatulas stacked for extra pressure). Smash hard to get those lacy, browned edges.
2. Season the top with salt and pepper while it cooks.
3. Let the patty sear untouched for 1½ to 2 minutes until the edges are browned and crispy.
4. Flip the patty and immediately add a slice of cheese.
5. Cook for another 1 minute until the cheese is melted and the bottom is seared.
6. Repeat with remaining patties.

Assemble the Smashburgers:

1. Spread burger sauce or condiments on the bottom bun.
2. Add shredded lettuce or pickles if desired.
3. Stack the hot, cheesy patty (or two if doing doubles) right onto the bun.
4. Top with tomato, onion, or more sauce as preferred.
5. Add the top bun, press gently, and serve immediately while hot and melty.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crispy seasoned fries or onion rings on the side
• Add a milkshake or sweet tea for that full diner experience
• For spicy lovers, top with jalapeños and chipotle mayo
• Make it deluxe with bacon, avocado, or caramelized onions
• Stack two patties for a classic double or even three for a mega burger moment

Tips for Smashburger Success

• Use 80/20 beef for perfect fat content—don’t use lean or it’ll dry out
• A hot griddle is key—don’t smash on a cold pan or the meat will stick
• Smash once and leave it—pressing again after flipping removes moisture
• Avoid overworking the beef when forming balls—loose = juicy
• Use parchment paper between spatula and patty to prevent sticking when smashing
• Toast the buns for extra flavor and to prevent sogginess from the juicy burger
• Don’t crowd the pan—cook in batches if needed to keep the heat high

Why You’ll Love It

Smashburgers are a flavor bomb in burger form. You get the crispness of a seared patty, the gooey melt of cheese, the softness of a buttery bun, and the bite of whatever toppings you love—all in one perfect mouthful. They’re quick, customizable, and seriously satisfying. Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting a backyard cookout, these burgers bring restaurant-level taste to your home kitchen with zero fluff and maximum flavor.

Final Thoughts

Smashburger Cheeseburgers are the answer to every craving for a classic burger with a bold, beefy twist. They’re fast, hot, cheesy, crispy-edged, and dripping with flavor. Once you’ve made your own, you’ll never settle for fast food again. These burgers don’t just hit—they slap.

Stick around—every visit tastes better than the last at The Buttered Bliss.