Crispy Smashed Burger

Crispy Smashed Burger (2026 Viral Recipe). This recipe has gone viral for a reason: it’s quick, easy, and incredibly delicious.

Below you will find the step-by-step instructions to make this amazing dish at home.

Introduction

Get ready to elevate your burger game with our crispy smashed burger recipe! Imagine a juicy patty, crispy on the outside and cooked to perfection, served on a soft bun with all the fixin’s. This mouthwatering meal is perfect for casual gatherings or quick weeknight dinners.

Smashing burgers has become a trendy cooking technique in recent years, and for good reason. By searing the burger in a hot skillet, you create a crispy crust that adds texture and flavor to the dish. In this article, we’ll share our step-by-step guide on how to make a crispy smashed burger that’s sure to impress your friends and family.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or 70/30 lean to fat ratio works best)
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 hamburger buns
• Let’s get crazy with toppings: cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, ketchup, mustard, and more!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Prepare the patties**: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Gently flatten each ball into a patty, making sure not to overwork the meat.

2. **Season the patties**: Sprinkle both sides of each patty with salt and pepper.

3. **Heat the skillet**: Preheat a large cast-iron or stainless steel skillet over medium-high heat (around 375°F). Yes, you read that right – medium-high! We want to get that skillet scorching hot for those crispy edges.

4. **Add oil and patties**: Place 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in the preheated skillet. Once the oil is shimmering, add the patties (don’t overcrowd the skillet – cook them in batches if necessary). You should hear a nice sizzle when they hit the oil.

5. **Smash those burgers!**: Use a spatula or tongs to gently press down on each patty, making sure it’s evenly flattened and in contact with the skillet. You want to get that crust forming! Cook for 3-4 minutes or until you see the edges start to sear.

6. **Flip and cook the other side**: Flip the patties over and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F – 135°F (54°C – 57°C).

7. **Assemble the burgers**: Place each cooked patty on a hamburger bun and add your favorite toppings.

Pro Tips for Success

* Use a thermometer to ensure the skillet is at the right temperature.
* Don’t press down too hard on the patties – you want to preserve that delicate crust.
* If you’re having trouble getting those crispy edges, try cooking the burgers in a hot oven (400°F/200°C) for 10-15 minutes before finishing them off in the skillet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use other types of meat or mix-ins?
A: Absolutely! Try using ground turkey, chicken, pork, or beef with added ingredients like diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms to give your burgers unique flavor profiles.

Q: What’s the best type of bun for a crispy smashed burger?
A: A soft, slightly sweet bun is perfect. Avoid buns that are too dense or crumbly, as they might detract from the crispy patty.

Q: Can I make these burgers ahead of time?
A: Yes, but cook them just until they’re 80% done, then finish them off in the skillet before serving. This will help preserve their juiciness and crispiness.

Now that you’ve got the recipe, go forth and smash those burgers!

💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Air Frying

• Space is Key: Don’t overcrowd the basket for max crispiness. 🌬️
• Preheat: A preheated air fryer gives better results. 🔥
• Shake: Flip halfway for even browning. 🔄

💡 Master Your Air Fryer: Pro Tips

• Airflow: Don’t crowd the basket. 🌬️
• Preheat: 3-5 mins for best results. 🔥
• Shake: Flip halfway for even browning. 🔄

Why You Should Use an Air Fryer for This Recipe

Using an air fryer is a game-changer for this recipe. Unlike traditional frying, it uses up to 95% less oil, making your meal significantly healthier without sacrificing that delicious crunch. Plus, it is faster than a conventional oven and doesn’t heat up your entire kitchen.

Pro Tips for Perfection

• Don’t Overcrowd: Always cook in a single layer to ensure the hot air circulates evenly.
• Preheat: Taking 3 minutes to preheat your air fryer ensures the food starts cooking immediately for a crispier texture.
• Shake It: Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning on all sides.

How to Store and Reheat

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until they are crispy again. Do not use a microwave, as it will make them soggy.