Smash burgers have taken the United States by storm, becoming a go-to order for burger lovers who crave a thin, crispy-edged patty with a juicy center. From neighborhood diners to home kitchens, this American classic is prized for its rich flavor and simple cooking technique.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to make the ultimate smash burger at home. You’ll learn what a smash burger is, how the trend started, how to choose the right ingredients, and step-by-step instructions for crafting the perfect smash burger recipe. Whether you’re new to the technique or looking to upgrade your burger game, this article will help you create a restaurant-quality smash burger right in your own kitchen.
What Is a Smash Burger?
A smash burger is made by pressing a ball of ground beef onto a hot griddle or skillet, flattening it to create a patty with crispy, caramelized edges and a juicy center. Unlike thicker burgers, the smash technique locks in flavor while maximizing surface area for the Maillard reaction, giving the burger its signature crust.
The key is to use high-fat ground beef (around 80/20 beef-to-fat ratio) and to season simply with salt and pepper. Once smashed, the patty cooks quickly, so having toppings and buns ready ensures you ca
History of Smash Burgers
Although burgers have been around for decades, the smash burger technique became popular in the United States in the late 2010s. Fast-casual restaurants and social media videos fueled its rise, drawing attention to the thin, crispy edges that distinguish smash burgers from thicker patties.
The technique itself isn’t new: short-order cooks have been smashing burgers on griddles for years to speed up cooking and maximize flavor. In recent years, home cooks adopted the method, inspiring a surge of recipes and variations across the USA.eThis simple history illustrates why the smash burger remains a beloved American staple. taste.