Smash Cheeseburger
These crispy-edged, incredibly juicy smash burgers are topped with melted plant-based cheese for a fully kosher treat.
Ingredients
- •1.5 lbs ground beef chuck (80/20 fat ratio) (680g)
- •1 tsp kosher salt (5g)
- •0.5 tsp black pepper (2g)
- •4 hamburger buns
- •4 slices dairy-free cheddar-style cheese
- •1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- •2 tbsp neutral oil for the pan (30ml)
- •0.25 cup mayonnaise (60ml)
- •2 tbsp ketchup (30ml)
- •1 tbsp dill pickle relish (15ml)
- •4 lettuce leaves
- •1 large tomato, sliced
Instructions
- 1
Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and gently roll them into loose balls without overworking the meat.
- 2
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, and pickle relish to make the special burger sauce.
- 3
Heat a heavy cast-iron skillet or griddle over high heat until smoking hot, then lightly oil the surface.
- 4
Place the beef balls onto the hot skillet, leaving enough space between them, and firmly press each one down flat using a stiff metal spatula and a heavy press for about 10 seconds to create a very thin patty with lacy edges.
- 5
Season the smashed patties generously with kosher salt and black pepper.
- 6
Cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes until the edges are dark brown and crispy.
- 7
Flip the patties over, immediately place a slice of dairy-free cheese on each one, and cook for another minute until the meat is cooked through and the cheese is melted.
- 8
Toast the hamburger buns cut-side down in the same skillet for 30 seconds until golden brown.
- 9
Assemble the burgers by spreading the special sauce on both bun halves, then layering with lettuce, tomato, the cheesy smash patty, and sautéed onions if desired.
💡 Chef tips
- Make sure your beef has at least 20 percent fat content; lean meat will dry out and won't get that signature crispy crust.
- Use a heavy-duty metal spatula and press down hard during the first 10 seconds of cooking for the best smash burger texture.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; cook the patties in batches of two if your skillet is not large enough.
✅ How it should turn out
The finished smash cheeseburgers feature ultra-crispy, lacy edges, juicy beef, and melted cheese, delivering a deeply savory flavor in every bite.