These easy Blackstone smash burgers are juicy and packed with flavor! Made simply with ground beef, they’re crispy on the outside and tender inside. They’re perfect for a quick meal!
What’s better than a burger you can customize? Load it up with your favorite toppings and enjoy the sizzle! I always make extras to share with friends—everyone loves a good smash burger! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend an 80/20 blend for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for leaner options, try 85/15 or even turkey for a lighter version. Just note that they might not be as juicy.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is delicious, but feel free to swap it for Swiss, American, or your favorite cheese. If you’re looking for a bit of a kick, pepper jack works great too!
Buns: Soft hamburger buns are classic, but for a twist, try brioche or whole wheat buns. I like to use toasted buns for extra texture—it’s worth the extra step!
Mayonnaise: If you want a healthier kick, Greek yogurt is a nice alternative. For a zesty twist, add a bit of sriracha to the mayo mixture. It elevates the flavor beautifully!
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Crispy Smash Patties?
Getting that crispy edge is what makes smash burgers so special! Here are my favorite tips:
- Preheat your griddle or skillet well. A hot surface helps to create a nice crust quickly.
- Don’t be shy—smash those beef balls down firmly! The thinner, the better for ultimate crispiness.
- Let your patties cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes to develop that golden crust before flipping.
- When you flip, make sure to add cheese right away; this helps it melt perfectly onto the patty!
Following these tips will give you burgers that will impress everyone at your next BBQ!
Easy Blackstone Smash Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 soft hamburger buns
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Optional: pickles, onions, lettuce, tomato slices for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to cook. So, you can have these tasty burgers ready in about 20 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or when you have company over!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Cookware:
Start by preheating your Blackstone griddle or a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. A hot surface is crucial for that lovely sear!
2. Shape the Beef:
While the griddle heats up, take your ground beef and gently form it into 4 equal-sized balls. Just make sure not to pack them too tightly. This will help keep your burgers tender!
3. Smash and Season:
Once the griddle is hot, place the beef balls on it. Using a heavy spatula or burger press, smash each ball flat until it’s very thin. It’s essential to do this as quickly as possible to form a nice crust. Season each patty generously with salt and pepper.
4. Cook to Perfection:
Let the patties cook for about 2-3 minutes without moving them, allowing the edges to get brown and crispy. After that, flip each patty carefully and place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each one. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and delicious!
5. Toast the Buns:
As the patties are cooking, take your hamburger buns and split them in half. Butter the insides and toast them on the griddle until they are golden brown. This adds a nice crunch to the burgers!
6. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, and smoked paprika to create a simple yet tasty burger sauce!
7. Assemble Your Masterpiece:
Now it’s time to build your burgers! Start by spreading the sauce on the bottom bun, place the cheesy smash patty on top, and load on any optional toppings like pickles, onions, lettuce, or tomato slices. Finish it off with the top bun.
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve your burgers hot and enjoy the juicy, crispy goodness of your Blackstone smash burgers! Perfect for a meal any time of the day!
FAQ for Easy Blackstone Smash Burgers
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef?
Absolutely! While 80/20 beef gives you the best flavor and juiciness, you can use 85/15 or leaner blends if you prefer. Just remember that leaner beef may not be as juicy, so adjust cooking time accordingly to avoid drying it out.
How Do I Keep My Smash Burgers From Sticking?
To prevent sticking, make sure your griddle or skillet is well-preheated and lightly greased with cooking oil or non-stick spray before you start. Using a heavy spatula to smash the burgers can also help achieve a sear without sticking.
Can I Make the Burger Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the burger sauce in advance! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This allows the flavors to meld nicely, making it even tastier when you’re ready to assemble your burgers!
What Should I Do with Leftover Burgers?
If you have any leftover burgers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat with the best results, warm them slowly in a skillet or in the oven to keep the patties tender and juicy. Enjoy them as is or on fresh buns!
