Smash Burgers with Cheese and Crispy Edges – Easy Recipe
Prep time: 18mins | 4 Burgers
Nothing beats a burger that is crispy on the outside, juicy inside, and topped with melted cheese. That’s exactly what you get with smash burgers. These thin patties are cooked by pressing ground beef onto a hot pan, which creates crunchy edges and a strong beef flavor.
In this easy guide, you’ll learn step by step how to make smash burgers with cheese and crispy edges at home.
What Makes Smash Burgers Special?
Unlike thick pub-style burgers, smash burgers are thin, quick-cooking, and full of flavor. The smashing technique gives the meat a brown crust while keeping the inside juicy. The cheese melts perfectly on top, making every bite satisfying.
Ingredients
Ground beef (80/20 blend) – 80% lean, 20% fat
Cheese – American cheese for classic melt, or cheddar for a sharper taste
Buns – Soft brioche or potato buns
Toppings – Pickles, onions, lettuce, tomato, bacon
Sauce – Ketchup, mustard, mayo, or burger sauce
Butter or oil – For toasting buns
👉 Tip: Use cold beef so the fat doesn’t melt before cooking.
Directions
1. Shape the Beef
Roll the ground beef into small, loose balls (2–3 oz each).
Don’t press them too tightly, This keeps the patty juicy.
2. Heat the Pan
Use a cast-iron skillet or flat griddle.
Heat it on high until very hot.
Lightly oil the surface.
3. Toast the Buns
Spread butter on the cut side of buns.
Toast them on the hot pan until golden.
Remove and set aside.
4. Smash the Patties
Place a beef ball on the hot surface.
Press down firmly with a spatula or burger press until thin (about ¼ inch).
Hold for 5–10 seconds.
Season with salt and pepper.
5. Cook the First Side
Let it cook for about 2 minutes without moving.
The edges should turn brown and crispy.
6. Flip and Add Cheese
Carefully flip with a spatula.
Place cheese on top immediately.
Cook for 1–2 more minutes until cheese melts.
7. Build the Burger
Place the patty on the bun.
Add your favorite toppings: pickles, onions, lettuce, or bacon.
Spread sauce on the top bun.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Best Toppings for Smash Burgers
Classic Style: Cheese, onions, pickles, ketchup, mustard
Deluxe Style: Lettuce, tomato, onions, burger sauce
Spicy Style: Jalapeños, spicy mayo, pepper jack cheese
BBQ Style: Bacon, onion rings, BBQ sauce
Mushroom Swiss: Sautéed mushrooms, Swiss cheese, garlic mayo
Smash Burgers vs. Regular Burgers
| Feature | Smash Burgers | Regular Burgers |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking | Smashed flat on hot pan | Grilled or cooked thicker |
| Texture | Crispy edges, juicy inside | Thick and softer |
| Cooking Time | 3–4 minutes | 8–10 minutes |
| Flavor | Strong beef taste | More mild |
| Size | Thin, stackable | Thick, single patty |
Tips for Perfect Smash Burgers
Smash the patty right away—waiting too long stops the crust from forming.
Don’t over-handle the beef—it makes patties tough.
Use fatty beef (80/20 blend) for the juiciest result.
Keep toppings simple—let the crispy beef shine.
Nutrition Facts
*Per serving (1 burger with cheese)
- Calories480 kcal
- Protein28 g
- Carbohydrates32 g
- Fat28 g
- Saturated Fat12 g
- Cholesterol95 mg
- Sodium740 mg
- Fiber2 g
- Sugar5 g
FAQ's on Smash Burgers
Q1. What is the difference between a smash burger and a regular burger?
A smash burger is made by pressing a ball of beef onto a hot pan, which creates thin patties with crispy edges. Regular burgers are usually thicker and grilled or pan-cooked without smashing.
Q2. What kind of beef is best for smash burgers?
Use 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat). The fat helps keep the burger juicy and adds flavor. Leaner beef can make the burger dry.
Q3. Do I need a special tool to smash the burger?
No! A flat, sturdy spatula works perfectly. If you have a burger press, you can use it, but it’s not required.
Final Thoughts
Smash burgers with cheese and crispy edges are easy to make and taste just like restaurant-style burgers. With just beef, cheese, and a hot pan, you can enjoy this delicious recipe at home in minutes.
🍔 What’s your favorite smash burger topping—classic pickles or crispy bacon? Share your answer in the comments!
👉 For more comfort food ideas, check out our easy beef stroganoff recipe and other simple meals on TasteSpur.
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