Juicy Smash Burgers with crispy edges, melted cheese, and creamy secret burger sauce for easy homemade diner-style burgers.
1 1/2 pounds ground beef, 80/20 blend
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
4 burger buns
4 slices cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon butter
Sliced pickles
Lettuce
Tomato slices
Thinly sliced onion
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon mustard
1 tablespoon pickle relish
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1. Whisk mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle relish, garlic powder, and paprika to make the burger sauce.
2. Divide ground beef into 4 loosely packed balls.
3. Season beef lightly with salt and black pepper.
4. Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over high heat.
5. Butter and toast burger buns until golden.
6. Place beef balls onto hot skillet and smash flat immediately.
7. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until crispy edges form.
8. Flip burgers and top with cheddar cheese.
9. Cook another 1 to 2 minutes until cheese melts.
10. Spread burger sauce onto toasted buns and assemble burgers with toppings.
Use high heat for crispy burger edges.
Avoid pressing the burgers after flipping.
Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.