dp spotlight sf Recipe: Smash Burgers

In case you haven't had a chance to dive into Toronto's smash burger craze, we're going to let you in on a little secret - they're delicious...AND ridiculously easy to perfect in your very own kitchen!

In case you haven't had a smash burger before, these are not the thick and meaty burgers you might be used to. These smashed up patties are thinner, rough around the edges and packed with incredible flavour and texture.

All it takes is high quality ground beef (we've got you covered), your favourite toppings and "secret sauce" (we've got some ideas below), and a soft brioche or potato bun.

Smash time!

INGREDIENTS:

Servings: 4

1.0 - 1.5 lb ground beef (100% grass-fed)
Vegetable oil (we use avocado oil)
1 tsp kosher salt
4 slices American or cheddar cheese
2 tbsp mayonnaise
1 tbsp ketchup
1 tsp mustard
1 tsp pickle juice
Pinch of paprika
Shredded iceberg lettuce
2 medium size dill pickles, sliced for serving
4 brioche buns or potato rolls, toasted

PREPARATION:

STEP 1
Divide the ground beef into four even amounts and roll each into a loose ball. Careful not to roll them too tight - you want them fairly loose so you can smash them!

STEP 2
Heat a cast iron or non-stick skillet over high heat and add a thin layer of oil.

STEP 3
As the pan is heating up, make the secret sauce by combining the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle juice, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well and adjust to your taste! *Some alternate versions include diced pickles, adobo or chipotle spices!

STEP 4
When the pan is smoking hot, add the beef. Sprinkle immediately with salt and drop the heat to medium-high. Using a big spatula (you might need to grease it so it doesn't stick), SMASH each ball down to a thin patty. It's a good thing if you see rigid edges as those will get crispy and delicious!

STEP 5
Cook for 1-2 minutes on the first side and then flip. Sprinkle the other side with a bit of salt and then layer on the sliced cheese. Cook for another 1 minute.

STEP 6
While burgers are cooking, lightly toast the buns and layer the bottom with the shredded lettuce to absorb those delicious juices from the burger. Spread secret sauce on the top bun.

STEP 7
Layer burgers on top of the lettuce and then top the burgers with the sliced pickles. Serve with homemade fries or your smash burger side of choice!