Juicy Smash Burger Recipe with Gooey Cheese Pull – Easy Homemade Diner Style

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Who doesn’t love a classic smash burger? This viral favorite brings that crispy, caramelized edge and ultra-juicy center straight from the American diner to your kitchen. Ready in under 20 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights or weekend treats!

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 20 minutes Servings: 4 burgers Calories per serving: Approx. 650 (with toppings)

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450g) 80/20 ground beef (chuck is best for flavor and juiciness)
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ tsp garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
  • 4 slices American cheese (for that perfect melt – don’t substitute!)
  • 4 brioche buns or potato buns, toasted
  • 2 tbsp butter (for toasting buns)
  • Toppings: Shredded lettuce, sliced tomato, dill pickle chips, thinly sliced onion
  • Optional: Special sauce (mix ¼ cup mayo + 1 tbsp ketchup + 1 tsp mustard + 1 tsp pickle juice)

Instructions:

  1. Prep the Beef: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Loosely form into balls – do NOT overwork the meat!
  2. Heat the Griddle/Skillet: Preheat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until smoking hot (about 3-4 minutes). Add a tiny bit of oil if needed.
  3. Smash the Patties: Place beef balls on the hot surface. Immediately smash each flat with a heavy spatula or burger press to about ¼-inch thick. Season top with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook 2-3 minutes until edges are crispy and dark brown.
  4. Flip & Cheese: Flip patties. Place a slice of American cheese on each. Cook 1-2 more minutes until cheese melts gooey and edges crisp further. For extra flavor, smash onions on top before flipping if desired.
  5. Toast Buns: While patties cook, spread butter on buns and toast cut-side down in the same skillet until golden.
  6. Assemble: Spread special sauce (if using) on bottom bun. Layer lettuce, tomato, patty with cheese, pickles/onions, top bun.
  7. Serve Immediately: Enjoy hot – that cheese pull is best fresh!

Tips for Success:

  • Use high-fat beef (80/20) – fat = flavor and juiciness!
  • Smash hard right away to create crust.
  • Don’t move patties until ready to flip – let Maillard reaction happen.
  • For double cheese pull: Stack two thin patties with cheese in between.

Nutrition (per burger, approximate): Calories: 650 | Protein: 35g | Fat: 40g | Carbs: 35g

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