Smash Burgers with House Sauce

Crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor, these Smash Burgers are the ultimate way to enjoy a classic burger with a perfectly seared crust. Paired with a rich and tangy house sauce, melted cheese, and soft toasted buns, these burgers are simple yet incredibly delicious. Whether for a weekend cookout or a quick dinner, this recipe will make you feel like a pro at the grill!

Ingredients:

For the Smash Burgers:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for best juiciness)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 4 slices American or cheddar cheese
• 4 brioche or potato burger buns
• 1 tablespoon butter (for toasting buns)
• ½ small onion, finely diced (optional, for added flavor)

For the House Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon or yellow mustard
• 1 teaspoon pickle relish
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (for tang)

For Toppings:

• Lettuce leaves
• Sliced tomato
• Pickles
• Sliced red onion

Instructions:

1. Make the House Sauce:

• In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle relish, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and apple cider vinegar.
• Mix until smooth and refrigerate while preparing the burgers.

2. Prep the Buns:

• Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Spread butter on the cut sides of the buns and toast them until golden brown.

3. Form and Smash the Patties:

• Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about ¼ lb each). Roll each into a loose ball.
• Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over high heat until very hot.
• Place a ball of beef onto the hot surface, then use a spatula (or burger press) to smash it down until very thin (about ¼-inch thick).
• Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
• Let cook for 2-3 minutes until crispy and well-browned on one side.

4. Flip and Add Cheese:

• Flip the patty and immediately place a slice of cheese on top.
• Cook for another 1-2 minutes until melted.

5. Assemble the Burgers:

• Spread house sauce on the bottom bun.
• Layer with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onions.
• Add the crispy smash burger patty and top with the toasted bun.

6. Serve and Enjoy!

• Serve with crispy fries, coleslaw, or a cold soda for the ultimate meal.

Pro Tips for the Best Smash Burgers:

✅ Use high heat for a crispy sear.
✅ Don’t overwork the beef—keep it loose for tenderness.
✅ Smash only once—pressing too much releases juices.
✅ Double up the patties for an extra indulgent burger.

These Smash Burgers with House Sauce deliver the perfect combination of crispy, juicy, and flavorful goodness—guaranteed to be your new go-to burger recipe! 🍔🔥