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Crispy Blackstone Smash Burgers with Secret Sauce

blackstone smash burgers - featured image

These smash burgers feature a crispy crust and juicy center, topped with a tangy secret sauce. Perfect for quick, satisfying meals cooked on a Blackstone griddle or cast iron skillet.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 4 slices American or cheddar cheese
  • 4 burger buns (preferably brioche or potato buns)
  • 2 tablespoons butter, softened
  • Secret Sauce:
  • ½ cup (120ml) mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon pickle juice (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Optional toppings: sliced pickles, shredded lettuce, thinly sliced red onion, tomato slices

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Secret Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, pickle juice, and honey. Chill in the fridge while you prep burgers (about 5 minutes).
  2. Form the Beef Balls: Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions, loosely shaped into balls. Do not overwork the meat to keep texture tender (2 minutes).
  3. Preheat the Blackstone Griddle: Set to medium-high heat (around 400°F / 200°C). Lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking (5 minutes).
  4. Toast the Buns: Spread softened butter on the cut sides of the buns. Place them on the griddle, buttered side down, until golden brown and crispy (about 1-2 minutes). Remove and set aside.
  5. Smash the Patties: Place beef balls on the griddle spaced apart. Using a sturdy spatula, press down firmly to about ½ inch (1.3 cm) thickness. The edges should spread wide and start crisping immediately (1-2 minutes).
  6. Season and Cook: Sprinkle salt and pepper on the patties. Cook until edges are deeply browned and juices start pooling on top (about 2-3 minutes).
  7. Flip and Add Cheese: Carefully flip the patties. Immediately place a slice of cheese on each. Cook another 1-2 minutes until cheese melts and burgers are cooked through.
  8. Assemble the Burgers: Spread a generous dollop of secret sauce on both top and bottom buns. Add the patty, then optional toppings like pickles, lettuce, tomato, and onion as desired.
  9. Serve: Stack, press lightly, and serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Notes

Keep griddle hot for proper crust formation. Do not press patties after flipping to retain juices. Toast buns with butter for added crunch. Secret sauce can be made ahead and chilled. For dairy-free or gluten-free options, substitute buns accordingly or use lettuce wraps.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash burgers, Blackstone grill, secret sauce, crispy burgers, juicy burgers, quick dinner, backyard cookout