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Savory Blackstone Smash Burger Recipe with Special Sauce and Cheese

Blackstone Smash Burger - featured image

A quick and easy smash burger recipe featuring a crispy crust, melty American cheese, and a tangy special sauce, perfect for backyard cookouts or casual meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 grams) ground beef, 80/20 blend
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ cup (120 ml) mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) pickle relish
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 4 slices American cheese
  • 4 burger buns (preferably soft potato buns or brioche)
  • Butter, unsalted and softened (for toasting buns)
  • Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, thinly sliced red onions, dill pickle slices

Instructions

  1. Prepare the special sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, ketchup, pickle relish, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until smooth. Cover and refrigerate while you prep the rest (about 5 minutes).
  2. Form the beef balls: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 ounces or 115 grams each). Roll each into a loose ball without packing too tightly to keep them juicy.
  3. Preheat your Blackstone griddle over medium-high heat (around 375°F or 190°C) until very hot. If using a cast-iron skillet, heat similarly on stovetop.
  4. Toast the buns: Spread softened butter on the cut sides of the buns. Place them buttered-side down on the griddle and toast until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  5. Smash the patties: Place each beef ball on the hot griddle and immediately smash it down firmly with a spatula or burger press to about ¼-inch (6 mm) thickness. Hold for 10 seconds to help crust formation.
  6. Season and cook: Sprinkle salt and pepper on the patties. Cook without moving for 2-3 minutes until edges are crispy and juices bubble on top.
  7. Flip and add cheese: Carefully flip each patty and immediately top with a slice of American cheese. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until cheese melts and internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  8. Assemble the burger: Spread a generous layer of special sauce on the bottom bun. Add the patty with melted cheese, then preferred toppings like lettuce, tomato, onions, and pickles. Cap with the top bun.
  9. Serve immediately with your favorite sides such as crispy fries or fresh coleslaw.

Notes

Do not press down on patties after flipping to retain juiciness. Keep beef cold before smashing to prevent sticking. Toast buns with butter for added flavor and crunch. If smoke is excessive, lower heat slightly. Special sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead and refrigerated.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash burger, Blackstone griddle, special sauce, American cheese, quick burger recipe, backyard cookout, easy burger