Double Smash Burger: Perfect Crispy Edges Every Time

Is there anything more satisfying than biting into a juicy burger with crispy, caramelized edges? The double smash burger delivers just that – a symphony of textures and flavors that’ll make your taste buds sing! Forget thick, unwieldy patties; we’re talking thin, craveable, and utterly irresistible smash burgers. This recipe unlocks the secret to achieving the perfect smash every single time, even if you’ve struggled in the past. Get ready for burger bliss!

Why You’ll Love This Double Smash Burger

This isn’t just another burger recipe. Here’s why you’ll be making this double smash burger again and again:

• Maximum Flavor: The smashing technique creates an incredible crust that’s bursting with savory goodness.
• Quick Cooking: Thin patties cook in just minutes, making this a perfect weeknight meal.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the toppings and cheese sauce to your liking.
• Foolproof Method: Our simple trick guarantees a perfect smash, even for beginners.
• Pure Burger Joy: It’s simply delicious! The perfect ratio of beef, cheese, and toppings.

Gathering Your Ingredients for Double Smash Burger

Let’s talk ingredients! The key to a truly stellar double smash burger lies in using quality components. We’re aiming for a burger that’s both juicy and flavorful, with a satisfying textural contrast. The ingredients below work together to create the ultimate burger experience, from the perfectly browned patties to the creamy, melty cheese.

Here’s what you’ll need:

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• Ground Beef: One pound of ground beef is the star of the show. An 80/20 blend (80% lean, 20% fat) is highly recommended. The fat content is crucial for keeping the patties juicy and flavorful during the smashing and cooking process. It also contributes to that beautiful, crispy crust we’re after.
• Sesame Burger Buns: Four sesame burger buns will provide the perfect vessel for our delicious patties. Choose buns that are soft yet sturdy enough to hold all the ingredients without falling apart.
• American Cheese: Four slices of American cheese (or your cheese of choice) are essential for that classic burger melt. American cheese melts beautifully and creates that gooey, satisfying texture we all love. You can also use it to make a rich and creamy cheese sauce.
• Milk or Evaporated Milk: You will need 1/4 cup of milk or evaporated milk if you want to make the cheese sauce.
• Butter: Two tablespoons of butter is used for both the cheese sauce and toasting the buns. Butter adds richness and flavor to both components.
• Salt and Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper is used to season the patties. Simple seasoning allows the beefy flavor to shine.
• Lettuce Leaves: Lettuce leaves will add a refreshing crunch to the burgers.
• Dill Pickle Slices: Dill pickle slices will provide a tangy contrast to the richness of the beef and cheese.

Consider high-quality lettuce that offers a satisfying crunch. Experiment with different pickle varieties to find your favorite level of tang. Feel free to explore options beyond American cheese, such as cheddar, provolone, or even a creamy Havarti, as well as adding bacon, as these can also add depth to the burger!

Crafting Your Double Smash Burger: Step-by-Step

Ready to create burger perfection? Don’t be intimidated – this double smash burger recipe is surprisingly simple. The key is in the technique, not the complexity. Follow these step-by-step instructions, and you’ll be rewarded with juicy, crispy-edged smash burgers that rival your favorite burger joint. Pay special attention to the smashing technique; it’s the heart of this recipe!

1. Prepare the Beef: Gently divide the one pound of ground beef into eight equal, loose balls (about 2 ounces each). The key here is gentle. Avoid overworking the meat, as this can result in tough burgers. Place the meatballs on a plate or tray and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes. Chilling the beef helps it hold its shape during the smashing process.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce (Optional): While the beef chills, prepare the cheese sauce, if using. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a small saucepan over low heat. The low heat is important to prevent the butter from burning. Whisk in the milk (or evaporated milk) and cheese slices, stirring constantly until smooth and melted. Keep the cheese sauce warm on low heat or cover to prevent a skin from forming. Alternatively, you can skip the cheese sauce and simply melt the cheese directly on the patties during the final minute of cooking.
3. Preheat the Cooking Surface: Preheat a large, heavy skillet or flat griddle over medium-high heat until very hot. A screaming hot surface is essential for achieving that perfect sear and crispy crust. If using a skillet, cast iron is ideal for even heat distribution. You can also use a stainless steel skillet, but be sure it’s preheated thoroughly.
4. Toast the Buns: Lightly butter the cut sides of the burger buns and toast them on the hot skillet for 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown. Toasting the buns adds texture and prevents them from becoming soggy when topped with juicy patties and sauce. Set the toasted buns aside.
5. Prepare the Smash: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the hot skillet. The butter will help prevent sticking and add flavor to the patties. Place four meatballs onto the skillet, leaving space between them. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the temperature and prevent proper searing.
6. The Smash Technique: This is the critical step! Immediately place a piece of parchment paper or wax paper over each meatball. Using a heavy, flat spatula (a metal spatula works best) or the bottom of a sturdy pot, firmly press straight down on each ball for about 10 seconds, smashing it into a thin patty, about 1/4 inch thick. The parchment paper prevents the meat from sticking to the spatula or pot. Holding the press steady ensures a good, even smash. Carefully remove the paper.
7. Season and Sear: Season the smashed patties immediately with salt and pepper. Seasoning at this stage helps the flavors penetrate the meat as it cooks. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and browned. The edges should be deeply caramelized.
8. Flip and Finish: Using a thin spatula, scrape under the patty to release it cleanly from the pan. The crust should help prevent sticking, but be gentle to avoid tearing the patty. Flip the patties and cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
9. Repeat: Repeat the smashing and cooking process with the remaining four meatballs, adding more butter to the pan if needed.
10. Assemble the Burgers: Place lettuce on the bottom bun. Stack two patties on top of the lettuce. Add dill pickle slices. Spoon the warm cheese sauce generously over the patties and pickles (or place a slice of cheese on each patty during the last minute of cooking). Place the top bun on top. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade double smash burger!

Tips for Perfect Double Smash Burger Every Time

Want to elevate your double smash burger game even further? Here are a few pro tips to ensure burger perfection every single time:

• Don’t Overwork the Beef: Handle the ground beef gently to avoid tough burgers. Mix the meat just enough to form loose balls, and avoid packing them tightly.
• Use a Hot Cooking Surface: A screaming hot skillet or griddle is essential for achieving a good sear and crispy edges. Be patient and allow the surface to preheat thoroughly before adding the patties.
• Smash with Confidence: Don’t be afraid to press down firmly when smashing the patties. The thinner the patty, the crispier the edges.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the patties in batches to avoid lowering the temperature of the cooking surface. Overcrowding will result in steamed, rather than seared, patties.
• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper. Seasoning is key to bringing out the flavor of the beef.

Consider trying different seasonings! A dash of garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika can add depth and complexity to the flavor profile. If you are feeling adventurous, consider adding a bit of caramelized onion to the burger. These can add a subtle sweetness and enhance the overall burger experience.

If you enjoy cooking and trying new recipes, you should also check out this Umami Shepherd’s Stew recipe that you will surely love!

What to Serve With Double Smash Burger

A great burger deserves equally delicious sides. Here are a few suggestions to complete your double smash burger meal:

• Classic Fries: Crispy, golden fries are the perfect accompaniment to a burger. Consider trying parmesan herb potato wedges, you can find the recipe here: Ultimate Parmesan Herb Potato Wedges
• Onion Rings: Golden and crispy onion rings offer a satisfying crunch and a complementary flavor.
• Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the burger.
• Salad: A simple green salad or a more elaborate creamy cauliflower broccoli salad can add a healthy touch to the meal.

Your Double Smash Burger Questions Answered (FAQ)

What’s the best type of ground beef to use for smash burgers?

An 80/20 ground beef blend (80% lean, 20% fat) is widely considered the best for smash burgers. The higher fat content ensures the patties remain juicy and flavorful, even when smashed thin and cooked quickly. The fat also contributes to the delicious crispy crust that’s characteristic of smash burgers.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While American cheese is a classic choice for its melting properties, you can definitely experiment with other cheeses. Cheddar, provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a creamy Havarti would all be delicious. Consider the flavor profile you’re aiming for and choose a cheese that complements the beef and toppings.

What if I don’t have a griddle?

No problem! A large, heavy skillet (preferably cast iron) works perfectly well for making smash burgers. Just make sure the skillet is preheated to a high temperature before adding the patties to ensure proper searing.

Can I make these ahead of time?

While smash burgers are best enjoyed fresh off the griddle, you can prepare the ground beef balls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. You can also make the cheese sauce in advance and reheat it gently before serving. However, avoid cooking the patties ahead of time, as they will lose their crispiness.

Enjoy Your Homemade Double Smash Burger!

There you have it – the ultimate guide to creating double smash burger perfection in your own kitchen! With this recipe and a few simple techniques, you can enjoy juicy, crispy-edged burgers anytime you crave them. So, fire up that skillet, gather your ingredients, and get ready for a burger experience that’s truly unforgettable. Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let us know how your smash burgers turned out! We love hearing from you. And if you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to share it with your friends and family!