Hi, I’m Lina.
As a busy mom, I rely on recipes that feel comforting without needing hours in the kitchen. This dish is one of my easy weeknight favorites, simple, warm, and full of flavor. If you love homey food that brings everyone to the table, this recipe will be perfect for you.
These Classic Griddle Smashburgers are pure burger perfection, crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and ready in minutes. Using a hot griddle (or cast-iron skillet), we smash ground beef into thin patties that cook fast and form those irresistible crispy edges. Topped with melty cheese, pickles, and a creamy burger sauce, this is the kind of meal that gets everyone excited for dinner.
Why You’ll Love Classic Griddle Smashburgers
Smashburgers are all about simplicity, good beef, high heat, and that satisfying smash. The thin patties cook quickly and get that golden, caramelized crust that locks in flavor. Stack them up with cheese and your favorite toppings for a burger night that rivals your favorite diner.
If you love handheld comfort food, try Cheesy Chicken Potato Casserole next!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
- 4 burger buns (brioche or potato rolls)
- 4 slices American or cheddar cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp butter or oil for griddle
For the burger sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp diced pickles or relish
- 1 tsp pickle juice
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
Optional toppings:
- Shredded lettuce
- Tomato slices
- Pickles
- Diced onions
Instructions
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickles, pickle juice, and garlic powder. Refrigerate until ready to use.
- Preheat the griddle: Heat a griddle or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until very hot.
- Form the beef balls: Divide the beef into 8 equal balls for thinner double patties (or 4 for singles).
- Smash and sear: Place each beef ball on the hot griddle. Use a sturdy spatula to smash it flat until thin. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook and flip: Cook for 1–2 minutes until the edges are crispy. Flip once, add a slice of cheese, and cook another 30 seconds.
- Assemble: Toast the buns lightly on the griddle. Add sauce, lettuce, tomato, and pickles. Stack the patties and serve hot!
Lina’s Tip:
For the crispiest edges, press the beef down firmly and don’t move it until it’s ready to flip. A metal burger press or spatula works perfectly.
You might also love my Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs for another easy dinner that’s big on flavor.
Print
Classic Griddle Smashburgers – Juicy, Crispy, and Perfectly Simple
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers
Description
Juicy Classic Griddle Smashburgers with crispy edges, melted cheese, and creamy burger sauce, diner perfection made at home.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (80/20)
4 burger buns
4 slices American or cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp butter or oil
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp yellow mustard
1 tbsp diced pickles or relish
1 tsp pickle juice
¼ tsp garlic powder
Lettuce, tomato, pickles, diced onion for topping
Instructions
1. Mix mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickles, pickle juice, and garlic powder for the burger sauce. Chill.
2. Preheat a griddle or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Divide beef into 8 equal balls (for double patties) or 4 for singles.
4. Place a beef ball on the hot griddle and smash flat using a metal spatula.
5. Season with salt and pepper and cook for 1–2 minutes until edges are crispy.
6. Flip, top with cheese, and cook another 30 seconds.
7. Toast buns, assemble with sauce and toppings, and serve immediately.
Notes
Use freshly ground beef for best flavor and crust. Smash only once for maximum sear. A hot griddle makes all the difference!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Griddle
- Cuisine: American