Smash Burger at Home (Crispy Edges, Juicy Center)
Updated: February 14, 2026
The technique that makes the burger viral: thin patties, hard sear, fast cook, and proper stacking.
Fun fact
Smashing is about contact: more surface area = more browning = more flavor.
What you need
- 80/20 ground beef
- Cast iron or heavy pan
- Spatula + something to press with
- American cheese (melts best)
- Soft buns
The method
- Heat pan until ripping hot
- Ball the meat (2–3 oz)
- Smash hard for 10 seconds
- Salt, sear, flip once, cheese immediately
Sauce that makes it taste like a “place”
- Mayo + ketchup + pickle relish
- A tiny squirt of mustard
- Pinch of garlic powder