Classic Garlic Smash Burgers
These Classic Garlic Smash Burgers are incredibly flavorful and quick to make, featuring thin, crispy patties infused with garlic and topped with melty cheese.
Equipment
- Medium bowl
- Large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan
- Parchment paper
- Sturdy spatula or burger press
- Separate griddle (optional)
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground beef (80/20)
- 4-5 cloves Garlic minced
- 4 Burger buns
- 4 slices Cheese Cheddar, American, or Provolone
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp Olive oil or neutral cooking oil
Optional Toppings
- Lettuce
- tomato
- onion
- pickles
- special sauce
Instructions
Patties
- In a medium bowl, gently combine the ground beef with the minced garlic without overmixing. Divide the mixture into 4 equal, loose balls, about 1/4 pound each.
Cooking
- Heat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over high heat.
- Add olive oil to the hot skillet until it's smoking.
- Place two beef balls into the hot skillet, leaving space, then immediately smash each ball with parchment paper into a thin patty for about 10 seconds.
- Remove the parchment paper, season generously with salt and pepper, and cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until a deep brown crust forms.
- Flip the patties, immediately place a slice of cheese on each, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until melted and bubbly, and the second side has a brown crust.
Assembly
- While the second side cooks, lightly toast burger buns on a separate griddle or in the residual skillet heat for 30 seconds to 1 minute, cut-side down.
- Remove cooked patties, assemble burgers with cheesy patties on toasted buns, and add your favorite toppings and sauces.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your hot, fresh garlic smash burgers.
Notes
For an extra flavorful crust, ensure the skillet is very hot before adding the beef. Don't overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Adjust seasoning to your preference. Freshly ground black pepper adds a superior flavor.