Classic Smash Burger

Form thin beef balls. Smash hard on hot griddle. Season. Flip when edges crispy. Add cheese. Serve on toasted buns.

Last checked on May 17, 2026. We may earn a commission when you click through.

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American

Classic Smash Burger

Original recipe by J. Kenji Lopez-Alt

Total time
ready in 20 min
Yield
serves 4
Difficulty
Easy
Rating
4.9 (1800)
Classic Smash Burger
View recipe

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Method

  1. Form thin beef balls.

  2. Smash hard on hot griddle.

  3. Season.

  4. Flip when edges crispy.

  5. Add cheese.

  6. Serve on toasted buns.

Chef's notes

The Classic Smash Burger delivers an easy and satisfying cooking experience, perfect for casual gatherings. With a high rating of 4.9 from 1,800 reviews, it proves popular among home cooks.

Chef tip

For the best results, ensure your griddle is hot before smashing the beef balls to achieve that crispy edge.

Substitutions

You can use different types of cheese or buns based on your preference, but stick to high-quality ground beef for optimal flavor.

Honest take

While the recipe is straightforward and quick, it may lack the depth of flavor found in more complex burger recipes. It's a great go-to for a classic American burger fix.

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