Smash Burger with Secret Sauce

by

Crispy edges, juicy center bliss

If you love burgers with ultra-crispy edges and juicy centers, this smash burger with secret sauce is about to become your go-to recipe. Made with simple ingredients and cooked fast on a hot skillet, smash burgers deliver maximum flavor in minimal time—perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend meals. The real magic? The creamy, tangy secret sauce that ties everything together and tastes just like your favorite diner-style burger. No grill required, no complicated steps—just bold flavor, sizzling beef, and a restaurant-quality burger you can make right at home.

⏱️ Time Breakdown

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 2 (4 smash burgers)

📝 Ingredients List

Burger Patties

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 slices American cheese
  • 4 burger buns, toasted
  • 1 tablespoon butter (for toasting buns)

Secret Sauce

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped pickles or relish
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt, to taste

Toppings (Optional)

  • Shredded iceberg lettuce
  • Thinly sliced onion
  • Dill pickle slices

✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

  • Cast iron skillet or flat griddle
  • Spatula (sturdy, flat-edged)
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Knife & cutting board
  • Small bowl for sauce

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions

  1. Make the secret sauce: Mix all sauce ingredients in a small bowl until smooth and creamy. Refrigerate while cooking 🍔
  2. Heat the pan: Place skillet over medium-high heat until very hot (about 3–4 minutes).
  3. Form beef balls: Divide beef into 4 loose balls (don’t pack them). Season outside with salt and pepper.
  4. Smash: Place beef ball in skillet and immediately press flat with spatula. Smash thin for crispy edges 🔥
  5. Cook & flip: Cook 2 minutes until edges are deeply browned. Flip once, add cheese, cook 1 more minute.
  6. Toast buns: Butter buns and toast cut-side down in skillet until golden.
  7. Assemble: Spread secret sauce on buns, add patties, toppings, and close it up 😋

💡 Pro Tips

  • Don’t move the patties: Let them crust before flipping for maximum flavor.
  • Use parchment paper: Place between spatula and beef to prevent sticking when smashing.
  • Double it up: Stack two patties per bun for classic smash burger style.
  • Storage: Sauce keeps up to 5 days in the fridge in an airtight container.

Leave a Comment