Viral Smash Burger

I still remember the first time I stumbled upon the Viral Smash Burger recipe. It was one of those rainy days where the world outside felt cozy yet vibrant, and I wanted to fill my kitchen with warm, inviting scents. I scrolled through social media feeds, and there it was—a juicy, flavorful burger that looked more like a work of art than a meal. The way the melted cheese glistened on the perfectly seared beef patty caught my eye, and I could almost smell the savory aroma wafting through my screen. That warm sensation turned into curiosity, and soon enough, I was in my kitchen, creating my own version of this delicious smash burger.

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Each bite is pure bliss—tender beef bursting with juices, layers of rich flavors mingling together, and the slightly sweet and soft brioche buns hugging it all in an embrace. Now, every time I make this dish, the aroma fills my home, enveloping me like a cozy blanket, making it perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers with friends. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s loved by so many!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Takes just about 30 minutes from start to finish—perfect for weeknight dinners!
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of savory beef, tangy toppings, and my secret sauce makes every bite a delight.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings; everyone will rave about it!
• Customizable: Adjust the toppings to suit your taste or add seasonal twists.
• Comfort Food: A cozy meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat; or mix 1 lb 85% lean, 15% fat): The fat content is key to juicy, flavorful patties.
• 2 tsp salt: Enhances flavor—don’t skip it!
• 1 tsp black pepper: Adds a bit of heat without overpowering.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: Gives that extra depth of flavor we all crave.
• 4 tbsp mayo: Creaminess! This will be part of our secret sauce.
• 3 tbsp ketchup: A classic that everyone loves; it adds sweetness to balance the flavors.
• 1 tsp coarse ground Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy bite that elevates the sauce.
• 1 tbsp dill pickle relish: A must for a touch of crunch and vinegar-like tang!
• 1 tbsp capers (finely chopped): Adds a briny flavor that’s simply irresistible.
• 1 tbsp pickle juice: Enhances the zingy flavor and balances the richness.
• 1 yellow onion (sliced): Sweet when caramelized, providing that lovely aroma and taste.
• American cheese: Melts beautifully, creating a creamy layer.
• Lettuce: For crunch and freshness.
• Pickle: Classic topping with a satisfying crunch.
• Pepperoncini: A bit tangy and spicy for those who love a kick!
• Brioche buns: Soft, slightly sweet, and perfect for holding everything together.

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

Step 1: Prep the Patties

Divide the ground beef into 10 equal balls. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and garlic powder on top of each ball—these simple seasonings will do a world of good!

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

In a hot cast iron skillet with a splash of oil, add the sliced onions. Listen to that sizzle! Let them caramelize while the beef patties get ready.

Step 3: Smash and Season

Carefully place a beef ball in the skillet with the seasoned side facing down. Using parchment paper (to prevent sticking), press it flat with a spatula. Hold down for about 5 seconds, then sprinkle some seasoning on the exposed side—a little flavor boost!

Step 4: Cook to Perfection

Cook on high heat for exactly 3 minutes. It’s the smell of juicy goodness—flip it and add a slice of American cheese. Grill for an additional minute; you’ll be amazed at how the cheese melts and creates a gooey topping!

Step 5: Make Your Secret Sauce

While that’s cooking, combine mayo, ketchup, mustard, relish, capers, and pickle juice in a bowl. Mix until smooth and you have the dreamy sauce that will elevate our burgers!

Step 6: Assemble and Enjoy

Toast the brioche buns for an added crunch. Spread the secret sauce, layer on the lettuce and tomato, then top with the smash burger patties, pickles, and pepperoncini. Drizzle a bit more sauce and crown it with the other half of the bun. Voilà!

Pro Tips for Success

• Use Cold Meat: Cold ground beef patties will hold better when smashed and create a nice crust.
• Don’t Overwork the Meat: Gently form the patties; overworking can lead to tougher burgers.
• High Heat is Key: Ensure your skillet is super hot for that perfect crust.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, let the burgers rest for a minute—that helps keep them juicy.

Flavor Variations

• Spice it Up: Add jalapeños or sriracha to the sauce for a fiery kick.
• Herbed toppings: Fresh basil or cilantro can add a fresh twist.
• Seasonal Toppings: In summer, try layers of grilled zucchini or roasted bell peppers for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these burgers with crispy sweet potato fries or a fresh garden salad. For beverages, a cold craft beer or a homemade lemonade complements the meal perfectly. Serve with your favorite plateware to show off the burger.

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can prep the patties ahead of time and store them in the fridge for a day before cooking. The secret sauce can be made a few days in advance for a more blended flavor!

Leftovers

If you have any patties left, try them in a wrap with fresh veggies. It’s another delicious lunch option that’s both easy and quick!

Freezing

Absolutely! You can freeze patty balls (wrapped separately in plastic wrap) for up to 3 months. To thaw, place them in the fridge overnight.

Reheating

The best way to reheat these patties is in a skillet over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes, letting them regain their juiciness without drying out. Alternatively, you can use the microwave, but be cautious—do so in short intervals.

FAQs

Can I use leaner meat for the burgers?
Yes, you can, but remember, the fat helps keep the burgers juicy! Adding a touch of olive oil can help with leaner meats.

What type of skillet is best for smashing burgers?
A cast iron skillet is fantastic for creating a perfect crust, but any heavy-bottomed skillet will work!

Can I make these burgers without the secret sauce?
Absolutely! But trust me, once you try the secret sauce, you may never want to go without it again!

Why do you recommend brioche buns?
Brioche buns are soft yet sturdy, allowing them to soak up flavors without falling apart. Plus, that slight sweetness is delightful with the savory burger!

Final Thoughts

Every time you make the Viral Smash Burger, know that you’re inviting warmth and happiness into your kitchen. Each bite is an experience, a moment to share with loved ones, or maybe just to indulge in by yourself with some binge-worthy TV. So whip up a batch, savor those cozy vibes, and enjoy making memories with this delightful meal! Happy cooking, my friends!