Few things in life evoke nostalgia and comfort quite like a perfectly crafted cheeseburger. Whether it’s the sizzle of beef on a hot skillet or the aroma of toasted buns wafting through the kitchen, every element of this classic dish sparks joy and anticipation. This recipe for Smashed Cheeseburgers combines simplicity with culinary finesse, resulting in a burger that’s crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor.
In Search of the Perfect Smash
My journey with smashed cheeseburgers began during summers spent at my grandparents’ house. My grandfather, a self-proclaimed grill master, would spend hours meticulously crafting each burger, imparting not just culinary wisdom but a deep appreciation for the art of cooking. Every bite was a testament to his skill and love for good food.
Ingredients
1/4 teaspoon canola oil
5 ounces freshly ground beef, divided into two 2 1/2-ounce balls
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 medium onion, thinly sliced (about 1 cup sliced onions)
2 slices American cheese
2 soft hamburger buns
Mustard, pickles, and other condiments, if desired
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Skillet and Ingredients:
Begin by preparing a large cast iron skillet. Spread canola oil evenly inside the skillet using a paper towel. Heat the skillet over high heat until it starts to lightly smoke.
2. Smash and Season the Burgers:
Take each ball of ground beef and place it in the hot skillet. Immediately press down firmly on each ball with the back side of a spatula to flatten it into a thin patty. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
3. Cook the Burgers:
Spread the thinly sliced onions evenly over the cooking burgers. Press down gently to embed the onions into the meat. Allow the burgers to cook without further pressing for about 2 minutes, until they develop a crispy, browned crust.
4. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Carefully flip each burger using a stiff spatula, ensuring to pick up all the browned bits from the skillet. Let the burgers cook for another minute or so, allowing the onions to soften and caramelize slightly.
5. Add Cheese and Steam the Buns:
Place a slice of American cheese on each burger patty. Immediately place the top hamburger bun upside-down over the cheese. This allows the bun to soak in the flavors and steam gently from the heat of the onions and cheese.
6. Assemble and Serve:
Once the buns are softened and infused with flavor, transfer the bottom halves of the buns to a serving plate. Add condiments such as mustard, pickles, or any other favorites.
7. Final Assembly:
Using a spatula, carefully lift each burger patty with its onions and top bun together, and transfer it onto the waiting bottom bun. Repeat this for the second burger.
8. Serve Immediately:
Smashed Cheeseburgers are best enjoyed hot off the skillet. The combination of crispy edges, melty cheese, and savory onions creates a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds.
Variations and Substitutions
For those looking to personalize their smashed cheeseburger experience, there are endless variations and substitutions to explore:
Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack for varied flavors.
Buns: Opt for whole wheat buns or brioche buns to add a different texture.
Toppings: Beyond onions, try caramelized mushrooms, crispy bacon, or avocado slices.
Meat: Substitute beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives for dietary preferences.
Why Smashed Cheeseburgers?
What makes this recipe particularly appealing is not just its simplicity and speed, but the depth of flavor achieved through the smashing technique. By pressing the beef thin against a hot surface, you create maximum surface area for caramelization, resulting in a burger that’s both crispy and juicy. The addition of onions and cheese enhances the umami profile, while the steamed bun ensures every bite is moist and flavorful.
Whether you’re cooking for a summer barbecue, a casual dinner with friends, or simply indulging in a bit of culinary nostalgia, smashed cheeseburgers are a surefire way to satisfy cravings and create lasting memories. From the first sizzle in the skillet to the last satisfying bite, this recipe promises a taste of homemade perfection that’s hard to beat. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this classic dish—you won’t be disappointed!
