Smash burgers have become an iconic comfort food, and they’ve gained quite a reputation for their juicy, crispy edges, and deliciously indulgent flavors. If you’ve ever had the joy of sinking your teeth into a smash burger, you know exactly what I mean—the crispy, caramelized crust contrasts beautifully with the juicy, tender interior of the patty. Now, imagine making them on a Blackstone griddle, where you can achieve that perfect sear and crispness that makes these burgers so irresistible. The versatility of a Blackstone griddle lets you control the heat to perfection, making it the ultimate tool for cooking up smash burgers like you’ve never had before.

I first came across smash burgers at a local diner, and I was hooked immediately. The combination of a perfectly seared patty and fresh toppings just blew me away. However, after experimenting with different techniques at home, I quickly realized that a Blackstone griddle takes the burger-making process to the next level. With its expansive cooking surface and even heat distribution, you can easily make a smash burger that rivals any restaurant version.

In this recipe guide, I’ll take you through the steps of creating these mouthwatering burgers from scratch on your Blackstone griddle, so you can enjoy this ultimate comfort food in the comfort of your own home. Ready to learn how to make smash burgers that will leave everyone at the table craving more? Let’s dive right in.

Why I Love This Recipe

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a smash burger—maybe it’s the crispy edges, or the juicy middle, or even just the simplicity of it all. I love this recipe because it’s both fun and rewarding. The process of smashing the patties on the griddle brings out a savory, caramelized crust that enhances the burger’s flavor in the best way possible. The griddle ensures that every burger is cooked evenly, while also allowing you to control the temperature and crispiness of the patty.

What makes smash burgers on the Blackstone even more special is how quickly they cook—perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout. The sear that develops from the smash technique seals in all the juicy goodness, and the Blackstone griddle allows you to cook multiple burgers at once, making it great for feeding a crowd. It’s a perfect dish for anyone who loves good food with minimal effort but maximum flavor.

The versatility doesn’t stop with the patty itself either—you can add any toppings you desire, from cheese to crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, or even a fried egg, making each burger customizable to your taste. Whether you’re craving something classic or want to get creative with your toppings, this recipe is your ticket to smash burger perfection.

Ingredients for Smash Burgers on Blackstone

To make the best smash burgers on a Blackstone griddle, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together to create the perfect burger. Let’s dive into the essentials.

For the patties:

Ground Beef (80/20 blend): The 80/20 beef-to-fat ratio is crucial for smash burgers. It provides the right amount of fat to create juicy, flavorful patties with a satisfying crisp on the edges. Avoid leaner beef, as it will result in a dry burger.

Kosher Salt: Essential for seasoning the beef, bringing out its natural flavor. You don’t need anything fancy—just the basics to enhance the taste.
Freshly Ground Black Pepper: A bit of pepper adds a nice kick to the patty without overpowering it. Freshly ground is always best for optimal flavor.

For the toppings:

Burger Buns: Choose soft, sturdy buns that can hold up to the juicy patty without falling apart. Brioche buns are a popular choice for their slightly sweet, buttery flavor, but feel free to use your favorite.
Cheese: Classic American cheese is the go-to for smash burgers, but cheddar, Swiss, or even pepper jack work well depending on your preference.
Condiments: Ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, or your favorite special sauce. This is where you can really make the burger your own.

Lettuce, Tomato, Onion: Fresh vegetables add crunch and balance to the burger. Sliced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and caramelized onions work great as toppings.
Pickles: A few slices of pickle bring acidity that contrasts with the rich flavors of the burger.

How Much Time Will You Need

One of the best parts about making smash burgers on the Blackstone griddle is how quickly the process goes. Here’s a breakdown of how much time you’ll need:

Prep Time: 10 minutes. You’ll want to form your beef into balls (about 4 oz each), prep your toppings, and get the griddle ready.
Cook Time: 5–7 minutes. The burgers cook quickly due to the high heat of the griddle. You’ll smash them on the griddle, and they only need about 2–3 minutes per side.
Total Time: Approximately 15 minutes from start to finish. It’s the perfect quick meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

How to Make Smash Burgers on Blackstone

Step 1: Preheat your Blackstone griddle. Make sure the griddle is nice and hot before you start. You want a searing temperature to get that perfect crispy edge on the burger patty. Set it to medium-high heat and let it warm up for a few minutes.

Step 2: Form the Beef Balls. Take your ground beef and form it into 4 oz balls. Do not overwork the meat—just gently shape them into balls without compressing the meat too much. This will ensure a tender, juicy burger.

Step 3: Season the Beef. Once you have your beef balls ready, generously season them with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. The seasoning enhances the beef’s natural flavor and will help create that crispy exterior.

Step 4: Smash the Patties. Place the beef balls on the hot griddle and immediately smash them flat with a spatula. You can use the back of a large spoon or even a burger press to help with the smashing. The key is to press hard and fast so that you get a nice crispy edge. Let them cook for about 2 minutes without moving them.

Step 5: Flip the Patties. Once the edges are golden brown and crispy, carefully flip the patties over. Since they’re so thin, they cook quickly. Add your cheese slices at this point so that they melt over the burger while it finishes cooking.

Step 6: Toast the Buns. While the patties are cooking, toast your burger buns on the griddle. You can butter them lightly for added flavor. Toast until golden brown.

Step 7: Assemble the Burger. Once everything is cooked, place your patty on the bottom bun, add your condiments, toppings, and the top bun. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious smash burger!

Substitutions

While the classic smash burger on a Blackstone griddle is absolutely perfect as it is, there are plenty of ways to make it your own with substitutions. Here are some options:

Beef Substitute: If you want to try a leaner option, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a different flavor profile. Just be aware that these options won’t have the same crispy edges as a traditional beef smash burger.

Buns: If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative.
Cheese: If you’re not a fan of American cheese, you can easily swap it out for cheddar, Swiss, or provolone. For something spicy, try pepper jack!
Sauces: Experiment with different sauces to bring your own twist to the burger. Barbecue sauce, sriracha mayo, or even a creamy ranch dressing can complement the savory flavors of the patty.

Best Side Dishes for Smash Burgers

Pair your smash burger with these delicious side dishes to complete the meal:

Crispy French Fries: A classic choice that never goes wrong. Serve with ketchup, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Onion Rings: Crispy, golden onion rings add a crunchy texture that pairs perfectly with the juicy smash burger.

Coleslaw: A tangy, creamy slaw balances out the richness of the burger and adds a refreshing crunch.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Once you’ve perfected your smash burger on the Blackstone griddle, it’s time to focus on presentation. While the burger itself is the star of the show, a little attention to detail can elevate the overall experience. Here are some tips to serve your smash burgers in a way that makes them even more irresistible:

Use a Clean Plate: Presentation starts with the plate! Choose a sturdy, clean plate to serve your burger. A classic white plate can help the burger stand out, but you could also go for something rustic, like a wooden platter, to match a more casual vibe.

Arrange with Toppings: If you’re adding lettuce, tomato, or pickles, make sure they are neatly arranged around the burger, so every bite includes a bit of everything. For a gourmet touch, consider adding a few extra herbs like fresh basil or arugula on top of the patty.
Burger Stands or Toothpicks: To prevent the burger from falling apart, you can secure the top bun with a toothpick or a small burger stand, giving it a professional touch. This also keeps the layers together, making it easier for your guests to eat.
Serve with a Side in Style: Pair your smash burger with some crispy fries or onion rings. You can arrange the sides in small baskets or bowls for a fun, diner-inspired look.

Tips and Tricks to Make This Recipe Better

No recipe is perfect from the get-go, but with a few tweaks and tips, you can make your smash burgers even better. Here are some tricks to take your burgers from good to great:

Don’t Overwork the Meat: When forming the beef balls, be careful not to overwork the ground meat. Overworking it will lead to a tough patty. Gently form the balls and handle them with care to keep the texture light and juicy.
Use a Cast Iron Spatula: For the best smash, use a sturdy, flat cast iron spatula. This will help you apply even pressure and achieve that perfectly crisp edge. Make sure to grease the spatula with a little oil to prevent sticking.

Press Quickly and Firmly: When you smash the patties, don’t hesitate! Press down quickly and with enough force to create a nice, thin patty. But be careful not to press too hard or for too long—if you do, the patty may become too dry.
Let the Griddle Heat Up Properly: A hot griddle is key to making the perfect smash burger. Allow the Blackstone to heat up fully before cooking. The surface should be hot enough to create a quick sear on the meat but not so hot that the burgers burn.
Toast the Buns: Don’t skip toasting the buns. It gives them a golden crunch and helps prevent them from getting soggy from the juicy patty. Brush the buns with a little butter before toasting for an extra layer of flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a simple recipe like this, there are a few mistakes you’ll want to avoid to ensure your smash burgers are perfect every time:

Not Preheating the Griddle: One of the biggest mistakes is not allowing the Blackstone griddle to fully heat up. Without proper preheating, your burgers won’t get that crispy, caramelized crust. Wait for the griddle to reach a medium-high temperature before cooking.
Squashing the Patties Too Much: While the goal is to get a thin patty, don’t press the beef down too hard or for too long. Over-smashing will result in dry, overcooked burgers. You want to smash once, then let the burger cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes.

Overcrowding the Griddle: Don’t try to cook too many burgers at once. Overcrowding the griddle can lower the temperature, making it harder to achieve that perfect sear. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain high heat.
Not Seasoning Enough: Don’t skimp on the seasoning. Smash burgers are simple, but the seasoning is crucial to bringing out the natural flavor of the beef. Be generous with the kosher salt and pepper.
Forgetting to Rest the Meat: After smashing and flipping, let the burger rest for a minute or two before serving. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making for a juicier burger.

How to Store It

If you have any leftovers (which is rare when these burgers are involved!), here’s how to store and reheat them properly:

Storing the Patties: If you have uncooked patties, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. To freeze, place parchment paper between each patty to prevent sticking.
Storing Cooked Burgers: For leftover cooked smash burgers, allow them to cool to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep for up to 3 days.

Reheating: To reheat, place the patties back on a hot griddle for a minute or two, just until warmed through. If you’re reheating the bun, you can toast it on the griddle for a few seconds as well. For a quicker option, microwave the patty for about 20-30 seconds, but be mindful that this can affect the texture.

FAQ

Here are some common questions people ask when making smash burgers on a Blackstone griddle:

Can I use ground turkey for smash burgers?
Yes, you can use ground turkey as a leaner alternative to beef, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor will differ. Turkey can be drier, so it’s important not to overcook it.

Do I need to use a griddle for smash burgers?
While a griddle like the Blackstone works perfectly for smash burgers, you can also make them in a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan. The key is to use high heat to get that crispy crust.
How do I know when my smash burger is done?
The best way to tell is by looking for a deep golden-brown crust on the edges of the patty. The burger should be firm to the touch but still slightly juicy. If using cheese, it should be melted and bubbly.
Can I freeze my smash burger patties?
Yes, you can freeze the formed patties. Just make sure they are wrapped tightly to avoid freezer burn. When ready to cook, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before cooking.

Can I add extra toppings to my smash burger?
Absolutely! Smash burgers are versatile, so feel free to add anything from avocado and bacon to fried eggs or sautéed mushrooms. The sky’s the limit when it comes to toppings.