Smash Burgers with Special Sauce
Smash Burgers with Special Sauce are all about that crispy, caramelized edge and juicy, tender inside. The patties get smashed down right on the griddle to lock in flavor and…
Tip: save now, cook later.Smash Burgers with Special Sauce are all about that crispy, caramelized edge and juicy, tender inside. The patties get smashed down right on the griddle to lock in flavor and create a slightly crunchy crust that makes every bite a little celebration. Topped off with a creamy, tangy special sauce that brings just the right amount of zing, these burgers are simple but packed with bold taste.
I love making these burgers on a weekend when I want to impress without too much fuss. The special sauce is my little secret—it’s easy to whip up with mayo, ketchup, a splash of mustard, and a few spices, and it adds that perfect finishing touch that makes everyone ask for seconds. The smash technique means you don’t need fancy ingredients to get great flavor; it’s all about how you cook them.
The best part is how versatile these burgers are—you can dress them up with cheese, pickles, lettuce, or whatever you like. I usually keep it classic with melted cheddar, crispy onions, and a soft bun that soaks up the sauce just right. Every time I serve these, there’s a buzz at the table because everyone’s excited to dig into something so straightforward and satisfying. They’re a go-to for casual dinners, game days, or whenever you’re craving a burger that hits all the right notes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend an 80/20 mix for juicy burgers with enough fat to create that crispy edge. If you prefer leaner meat, a 90/10 works but expect a firmer burger. You can also try ground turkey or plant-based beef for alternatives.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor and melts beautifully. Swiss, American, or pepper jack are solid substitutes. Just choose one that melts well and fits your taste.
Brioche Buns: Soft, slightly sweet buns like brioche soak up the sauce without falling apart. Potato buns or classic sesame seed buns also work well if brioche isn’t available.
Special Sauce Ingredients: Mayonnaise is the base for creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, use vegan mayo. Mustard adds tang, but you can swap yellow for Dijon or spicy brown. Dill pickle relish gives nice texture, but chopped pickles or capers work too.
How Do You Get That Perfect Crispy Crust on Smash Burgers?
The secret is smashing your beef ball onto a hot skillet quickly and evenly. Here’s how I do it:
- Heat skillet or griddle to medium-high. A cast-iron pan is excellent for even heat and great crust.
- Place your loose beef ball down, then press firmly with a spatula or heavy utensil until the patty is very thin—about the size of your bun.
- Season the patty right after smashing so the salt helps draw out flavor during cooking.
- Let it cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes. You’ll start to see a deep brown crust forming around the edges.
- Flip carefully, add cheese, and cook another 1-2 minutes until melted and cooked through.
Don’t press down after the initial smash, or you’ll squeeze out all those tasty juices. This technique gives you the perfect mix of crispy outside and juicy inside every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Cast-iron skillet or heavy griddle – great for even heat and creating that crispy, caramelized crust on your patties.
- Sturdy spatula or burger press – essential for smashing the meat thin and flat without breaking it apart.
- Small mixing bowl – perfect for whisking together the special sauce ingredients smoothly.
- Spoon or brush – handy for spreading the special sauce evenly on the buns.
- Knife and cutting board – for slicing buns and prepping any fresh toppings like lettuce or pickles.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try topping with crispy bacon for a smoky crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
- Swap cheddar with pepper jack or Swiss cheese for a milder or spicier flavor kick.
- Add pickled jalapeños or banana peppers to the burger for a tangy, spicy twist.
- Mix diced onions or sautéed mushrooms into the beef before cooking to boost flavor and texture.
Smash Burgers with Special Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 soft brioche burger buns
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Cooking oil or butter for toasting buns and cooking patties
For the Special Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon dill pickle relish (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes in total — 10 minutes to prepare the sauce and patties, and 10 minutes for cooking and assembling the burgers. It’s quick, simple, and perfect for a delicious homemade meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Special Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, dill pickle relish (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as you like. Chill the sauce in the fridge while you cook the burgers.
2. Cook the Burgers and Toast Buns:
Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and lightly oil it. Divide the ground beef into 4 loose balls — don’t press them too much to keep them tender. Place a ball on the skillet and smash it down firmly with a spatula to a thin patty the size of your bun. Season with salt and pepper right away.
Cook for 2-3 minutes until the edges become brown and crispy. Flip the patty gently and place a slice of cheddar on top. Cook another 1-2 minutes until cheese melts and burger is cooked through. At the same time, slice your brioche buns and toast them cut-side down on the skillet until golden.
3. Assemble and Serve:
Spread a good amount of special sauce on the bottom bun. Add one cheesy patty, then the second cooked patty if you want a double burger. Top with shredded lettuce and drizzle more special sauce on top. Cover with the toasted bun.
Serve your smash burgers immediately with your favorite sides like fries or pickles. Enjoy that crispy, juicy burger goodness paired with the flavorful sauce!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for Smash Burgers?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before forming the patties. This helps the meat cook evenly and makes smashing easier.
How Should I Store Leftover Burgers and Sauce?
Store leftover patties and buns separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the special sauce in a sealed jar or container for up to a week. Reheat patties gently on the stove to avoid drying out.
Can I Make the Special Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The sauce actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours as the flavors meld. Prepare it up to 2 days in advance and keep refrigerated until ready to use.
What Can I Use Instead of Brioche Buns?
If you don’t have brioche buns, potato buns, classic sesame seed buns, or even sturdy sandwich rolls are great alternatives that hold up well with the juicy patties and sauce.