These easy Blackstone smash burgers are all about juicy goodness! With a crispy exterior and tender inside, they’re sure to be a hit at your next cookout.
Honestly, who doesn’t love the sizzle of burgers cooking on a hot grill? I can’t wait to pile mine high with cheese and all the toppings! 🍔
Making these burgers is a breeze. Just shape the patties, smash them down on the grill, and they’re ready in no time! Perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the right balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 85/15 will work too, but it may be less juicy. You can even use ground turkey or chicken for a healthier version.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar cheese adds a nice tang. If you prefer, you can swap it for American cheese, which melts beautifully. Fontina or Monterey Jack could also be delicious alternatives for a different taste.
Burger Buns: Sesame seed buns are classic, but feel free to use whole wheat or brioche buns for a twist. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free buns or even lettuce wraps for a lighter option!
Condiments: Ketchup and mustard are the classics, but don’t hesitate to try barbecue sauce, sriracha, or garlic aioli if you’re feeling adventurous!
What’s the Best Way to Smash Burgers Without Making a Mess?
The secret to a great smash burger is in the technique! When smashing, aim for even pressure at the center of the beef ball to create a uniform patty. Here’s how:
- Preheat your griddle until hot, then lightly oil it.
- After smashing, avoid moving the patties to let that crust develop. This caramelization boosts flavor!
- Use a heavy spatula or burger press for a clean smash, ensuring the edges of the patty get a nice, crispy edge.
Follow these tips, and you’ll end up with deliciously crispy burgers that everyone will love!
Easy Blackstone Smash Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 12 pickle slices
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or butter (for the griddle)
- Optional: ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise as desired
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy option for lunch or dinner. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have delicious, juicy smash burgers ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Griddle:
Start by preheating your Blackstone griddle or a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little vegetable oil or butter to the surface to prevent sticking—this helps achieve that perfect crust on your burgers!
2. Prepare the Beef:
Take the ground beef and divide it into 8 equal portions (about 2 ounces each). Roll each portion loosely into a ball. Remember, don’t compact them too tightly; you want that juiciness to shine through when cooking!
3. Smash the Patties:
Place 2 beef balls on the hot griddle. Grab a heavy spatula or a burger press and smash each ball flat to about ¼ inch thickness. Season generously with salt and pepper for tasty flavor!
4. Cooking the Patties:
Let the patties cook without moving them for about 2-3 minutes. This lets a beautiful crust form on the underside, which adds lots of flavors!
5. Add Cheese:
Flip the patties carefully and immediately place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each one. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts and the patties are fully cooked.
6. Toast the Buns:
While the patties are cooking, toast the burger buns on the griddle until they are golden brown and slightly crispy. This adds another layer of flavor and helps prevent sogginess!
7. Assemble Your Burgers:
Now it’s time to build your burger! Start with a layer of shredded lettuce on the bottom bun, stack two of the cheese-topped patties on top, and then pile on the pickle slices.
8. Add Condiments:
Add any desired condiments on the top bun—ketchup, mustard, or mayonnaise all work great! Then, gently close the burger with the top bun.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious smash burgers immediately with your favorite sides, like crispy crinkle-cut fries. Dig in and enjoy the juicy, crispy goodness!
FAQ for Easy Blackstone Smash Burgers
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef?
Yes, you can use leaner ground beef, like an 85/15 blend, but keep in mind that it may result in less juicy burgers. The 80/20 blend is ideal for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have a Burger Press?
No worries! If you don’t have a burger press, you can use a heavy spatula or any flat object to smash down the beef balls. Just make sure to apply even pressure to help achieve that delicious crust!
Can I Make These Burgers in Advance?
While it’s best to enjoy smash burgers fresh off the griddle, you can prepare the beef patties in advance. Form the beef balls, wrap them individually, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, just smash and cook as directed!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave for the best taste. You can also reassemble the burgers and toast the buns again to get that fresh-off-the-griddle taste!
