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Garlic Butter Smash Burgers

Thin, crispy smash burger patties basted in garlic butter, topped with cheese and bacon, and served on soft brioche buns.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 burgers
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 750

Ingredients
  

For the Smash Burgers
  • 1 lb ground beef 80/20 blend
  • 4 brioche buns
  • 4 slices cheddar or American cheese
  • 8 slices bacon cooked and crispy (optional)
  • To taste salt and pepper
For the Garlic Butter Spread
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 3 cloves garlic finely minced
  • 1 tsp dried parsley optional

Equipment

  • Cast iron skillet or griddle
  • Firm metal spatula
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

  1. Prep: Divide beef into 4 loose balls. Combine softened butter, garlic, parsley, and salt for the spread.
  2. Toast Buns: Spread garlic butter on cut sides of buns and toast on a hot surface until golden. Set aside.
  3. Smash and Sear: Heat griddle/skillet over high heat. Place beef balls down. Immediately SMASH into thin patties (use parchment paper and a spatula). Season with salt/pepper. Cook 2 minutes.
  4. Baste and Flip: Spoon a small amount of garlic butter onto the top of each patty. Flip the patties.
  5. Cheese and Finish: Immediately place cheese and bacon (optional) on each patty. Cook 1 minute more until cheese is melted and edges are crispy/charred.
  6. Assemble: Place patties on toasted bottom buns. Drizzle with desired sauce (or extra garlic butter/mayo) and top with bun lid. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and juiciness. Cook over very high heat to ensure a crispy crust. Only flip once.