What Is Smash Burger? The Perfect Summer Burger!
What To Know
- A smash burger is a style of hamburger that is made by smashing a ball of ground beef onto a hot griddle and cooking it until it is thin and crispy.
- The smash burger is thought to have originated in the 1950s at a restaurant called the Pantry in Pasadena, California.
- The smash burger method of cooking creates a burger that is juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside.
A smash burger is a style of hamburger that is made by smashing a ball of ground beef onto a hot griddle and cooking it until it is thin and crispy. This method of cooking creates a burger that is juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside, with a delicious caramelized crust. Smash burgers are often served on a toasted bun with your favorite toppings.
The History of Smash Burgers
The smash burger is thought to have originated in the 1950s at a restaurant called the Pantry in Pasadena, California. The restaurant’s owner, Paul Russ, is credited with creating the smash burger after he accidentally dropped a ball of ground beef onto a hot griddle. Russ was surprised by how delicious the burger was, and he began serving it to his customers. The smash burger quickly became a popular menu item, and it has since spread to restaurants all over the world.
How to Make a Smash Burger
Making a smash burger is easy! Here are the steps:
1. Start with high-quality ground beef. The best smash burgers are made with ground beef that is at least 80% lean.
2. Form the ground beef into balls. Each ball should be about 2 ounces in weight.
3. Heat a griddle or frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Add a little bit of oil to the griddle or frying pan.
5. Place the ground beef balls on the hot griddle or frying pan.
6. Use a spatula to smash the ground beef balls into thin patties.
7. Cook the patties for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are cooked to your desired doneness.
8. Serve the smash burgers on toasted buns with your favorite toppings.
The Benefits of Smash Burgers
There are many benefits to eating smash burgers, including:
- They are juicy and flavorful. The smash burger method of cooking creates a burger that is juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside. This combination of textures and flavors is irresistible.
- They are quick and easy to make. Smash burgers can be made in just a few minutes, making them a great option for a quick and easy meal.
- They are versatile. Smash burgers can be topped with a variety of toppings, making them a great option for everyone.
Smash Burger Toppings
There are endless possibilities when it comes to smash burger toppings. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Cheese: American, cheddar, Swiss, blue cheese, etc.
- Bacon: Crispy bacon is a classic smash burger topping.
- Onions: Raw onions, grilled onions, or caramelized onions are all great options.
- Tomatoes: Sliced tomatoes add a fresh and juicy flavor to smash burgers.
- Lettuce: Lettuce adds a bit of crunch to smash burgers.
- Pickles: Pickles add a tangy and sour flavor to smash burgers.
- Sauces: Ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, BBQ sauce, etc.
Where to Find Smash Burgers
Smash burgers are becoming increasingly popular, so you can find them at many restaurants. Here are a few of our favorite places to get smash burgers:
- Shake Shack: Shake Shack is a popular chain restaurant that serves delicious smash burgers.
- In-N-Out Burger: In-N-Out Burger is a California-based chain restaurant that serves classic smash burgers.
- Five Guys: Five Guys is a popular chain restaurant that serves customizable smash burgers.
- Au Cheval: Au Cheval is a Chicago-based restaurant that serves upscale smash burgers.
- The Spotted Pig: The Spotted Pig is a New York City-based restaurant that serves award-winning smash burgers.
The Verdict
Smash burgers are a delicious and versatile type of hamburger that can be enjoyed by everyone. If you’ve never had a smash burger before, we encourage you to give it a try. You won’t be disappointed!
FAQs
What is the difference between a smash burger and a regular burger?
Smash burgers are made by smashing a ball of ground beef onto a hot griddle and cooking it until it is thin and crispy. Regular burgers are made by forming ground beef into patties and cooking them on a grill or in a pan.
What is the best way to cook a smash burger?
The best way to cook a smash burger is on a hot griddle or frying pan. This will create a crispy exterior and a juicy interior.
What are the best toppings for a smash burger?
The best toppings for a smash burger are cheese, bacon, onions, tomatoes, lettuce, pickles, and sauces.
Where can I find the best smash burgers?
You can find the best smash burgers at restaurants like Shake Shack, In-N-Out Burger, Five Guys, Au Cheval, and The Spotted Pig.