Get ready for a delicious treat with these Thrilled Foodie Smash Burgers! Packed with juicy beef patties and topped with your favorite fixings, every bite is a burst of flavor!
These burgers are ridiculously fun to make—smashing those patties creates a crispy, golden edge. I love serving them with crispy fries and a big smile! 🍔😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: For the juiciest burgers, go with an 80/20 blend of ground beef. If you prefer a leaner option, 85/15 will still work, but they might be a bit drier. You can also substitute with ground turkey or plant-based meat for a healthier or vegetarian version.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a nice flavor to your burgers. If you’re not a fan, try Swiss or pepper jack for a bit of spice. You can also skip cheese entirely if you prefer dairy-free options.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a salty crunch. If you’re looking for alternatives, turkey bacon or pancetta can serve well. For a vegetarian option, opt for crispy veggie bacon.
Buns: Sesame seed buns are classic, but feel free to switch to brioche for a richer taste, or whole wheat for a healthier choice. Lettuce wraps can work too for a low-carb option!
How Do You Smash the Burgers Just Right?
Smashing the burgers creates that delightful crispy edge. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with hot oil in your skillet to get a good sear. A cast iron skillet works best.
- Once the ground beef is formed into balls, place it on the skillet and use a spatula to press down hard. Aim for about 1/2 inch thick.
- Don’t flip too soon; let them cook for 2-3 minutes to achieve that nice browning before turning them over.
Taking a moment longer to achieve that perfect sear is totally worth it!
Thrilled Foodie Smash Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1.5 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- 4 strips crispy bacon
- 1 cup arugula or mixed greens
- 1 large tomato, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
For the Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
For Cooking:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or canola oil (for cooking)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and around 15 minutes for cooking. In total, you should be enjoying these delicious burgers in about 30 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined. This sauce is going to add a ton of flavor to your burgers, so set it aside and let those flavors meld.
2. Preheat Your Cooking Surface:
Grab a large cast iron skillet or griddle and heat it over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil and let it get hot, but be careful not to let it smoke—just enough to create a nice sear!
3. Form the Beef Balls:
Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions, roughly 4 ounces each. Gently shape each portion into a loose ball. Remember, don’t overwork the meat; you want to keep it tender!
4. Toast the Buns:
Slice the burger buns in half and place them cut side down on the skillet to lightly toast until golden brown. This will give you a lovely crunch! Once toasted, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
5. Cook the Bacon:
In that same skillet, cook the bacon strips until they are crispy. Once done, remove them and let them drain on some paper towels to get rid of the excess fat.
6. Smash the Burgers:
Place each beef ball on the hot skillet. Using a sturdy spatula or burger press, smash them down to about a 1/2 inch thickness. This step is key for that delicious crispy edge! Season generously with salt and pepper.
7. Cook the Patties:
Let the patties cook undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes. This allows them to develop a beautiful, crispy, brown crust on the bottom.
8. Flip and Add Cheese:
Carefully flip each patty, and right after flipping, place a slice of cheddar cheese on top. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and the burger is cooked through.
9. Assemble the Burgers:
Spread a generous amount of your prepared sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Next, layer on the tomato slices, a handful of arugula, the cheese-topped burger patty, and top with crispy bacon strips and red onions if you’d like.
10. Top and Serve:
Finally, place the top bun over the assembled goodness. Enjoy your burgers immediately with your favorite fries or side—these Thrilled Foodie Smash Burgers are juicy, crispy, and bursting with flavor!
Enjoy your cooking adventure and every delicious bite! 🍔🎉
Can I Use Leaner Beef for the Smash Burgers?
Yes, you can use leaner beef, like 85/15, but keep in mind that it might be less juicy compared to the 80/20 blend. To maintain moisture, try not to overcook the patties!
What Can I Substitute for the Cheddar Cheese?
If cheddar isn’t your favorite, you can use Swiss, pepper jack, or even a dairy-free cheese alternative! Each will bring a different flavor profile to your burgers.
How Do I Store Leftover Smash Burgers?
To store leftovers, wrap the assembled burgers tightly in plastic wrap or keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For best results, reheat the patties separately in the skillet to get them warm and crispy again!
Can I Make the Sauce in Advance?
Absolutely! The sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Just give it a quick stir before using it to bring the flavors back together!
