6 Tips for Perfect Smash Burgers

With its thin and crispy patty, the smash burger definitely distinguishes itself from the regular version. With its caramelized exterior and juicy interior, it’s a veritable treat. Read our tips on cooking them to perfection to rally everyone around the table.

1. Choose a Fatty Meat

Opt for medium lean ground meat with a fat content that’s higher than 15%, for maximum flavour and ideal texture. Meat that’s too lean will dry up fast and be less juicy. As it melts, the fat helps with the formation of crispy edges and acts as a binder that keeps the patty from crumbling.

At IGA, our butchers are available to help you choose the best ground beef for the grill or skillet, and can help you with other ground meat options available in store.

2. Make Thick Patties

Plan for 85 g of ground meat per patty; that’s 170 g per burger. Shape the meat into thick patties (like you would with regular burgers) without compressing them too much. Oil the top and season them before cooking.

3. Heat the Cooking Surface

A cast-iron skillet, which has the capacity to both retain and better distribute heat, is the cooking tool that works best for cooking burger patties on the stovetop. It’s imperative that the skillet is very hot in order to sear the meat quickly and keep the patties from releasing their juices.

On the BBQ, it’s best to use a removable cooking sheet for the grill. A cast-iron skillet also works well. In either case, avoid smashing the burger directly on the grill; this will cause the patties to break or even fall through the grates. Another tip: turn the grill dials on high heat to properly sear the meat.

4. Press Down on the Patties

Place the patties in the skillet, oil side down. Press down on them firmly using a large and rigid spatula, or a smash burger press, until they’re about ⅜ inch (1 cm) thick. This promotes the development of a crispy exterior and a juicy interior. Cook the meat for 1 or 2 minutes on each side.

5. Choose and Warm the Buns

Brioche buns, the same kind you would use with regular burgers, are perfect for smash burgers. Spread a little bit of butter on the inside, to ensure they get perfectly browned, protecting it from the moisture of the other ingredients, particularly the meat.

6. Top the Burgers

Chopped onions, crisp lettuce, melty cheese, sliced pickles; these traditional toppings add to the richness of the smash burger. As for condiments, opt for classics like mayonnaise, relish and mustard, or choose a sauce of your liking for a more personalized touch.