There’s nothing quite like the thrill that comes with flipping a perfectly cooked burger, and my Blackstone smash burger recipe captures that excitement in every bite. As the sizzle of the beef hits the hot grill, I can’t help but think back to summer cookouts filled with laughter and unforgettable meals. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll uncover a flavor explosion that’s surprisingly simple to create.
What makes this smash burger stand out? It’s all in the technique! By pressing the beef patties down, you maximize the caramelization, locking in juices and flavor like no other. Add crispy bacon, melty cheese, and a zesty homemade sauce, and you have a dish that’s crowd-pleasing and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just tired of fast food, this recipe promises to bring joy to your table without the hassle. Ready to transform your burger game? Let’s dive in!
Why will you love this Blackstone smash burger recipe?
Irresistible Juiciness: The technique of smashing the patties enhances their flavor and ensures they cook evenly, creating those coveted crispy edges.
Quick Preparation: In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a mouthwatering meal that beats any takeout.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: With layers of crispy bacon, melty cheese, and a zesty sauce, this burger is guaranteed to impress family and friends.
Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite extras, like onions or pickles, to personalize your burger experience. Want more mouthwatering creations? Check out my other easy and delicious recipes!
Sizzle and Serve: Ideal for a casual cookout or weeknight dinner, these burgers are as satisfying as they are fun to prepare!
Blackstone Smash Burger Ingredients
Get ready to create the ultimate burger experience!
For the Sauce
- ½ cup mayo – A creamy base that adds richness and tanginess to your burger.
- ¼ cup ketchup – A classic sweet and tangy addition that balances the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon dill pickles – Finely chopped for that crunch and zest, taking your sauce up a notch.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – A hint of garlic to elevate the overall flavor profile.
- ½ teaspoon pickle juice – Adds extra tanginess; don’t skip this for the perfect zing!
- ½ teaspoon soy sauce – Deepens the umami flavor in the sauce for a savory kick.
- ½ teaspoon rice vinegar – Brightens the sauce, balancing the creaminess with a bit of acidity.
- ¼ teaspoon paprika – A touch of smokiness that enhances the richness.
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt – Essential for bringing out the other flavors in your sauce.
- ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds a gentle heat and depth to your delicious mixture.
For the Burgers
- 1 pound ground beef, 80/20 – The perfect fat ratio for juicy, flavorful patties.
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt – Seasoning the beef ensures that every bite is flavorful.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper – A must-have for seasoning the patties; the flavor enhances the overall experience.
To Assemble
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon – Cut in half; crispy bacon adds delectable smokiness to your burger.
- 4 hamburger buns – Soft and sturdy, they hold everything together perfectly.
- 2-3 tablespoons butter – For toasting the buns, creating a golden, crisp texture.
- 4 slices American cheese – Melts beautifully over the patties, providing that gooey goodness.
- burger pickles – Add your favorite tangy pickles for that extra crunch!
- white onion, very thinly sliced (optional) – Fresh, sharp onion slices can elevate the flavors with their crunch.
With these Blackstone smash burger ingredients, you’re all set to create a mouthwatering masterpiece that your taste buds will thank you for!
How to Make Blackstone Smash Burger
Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayo, ketchup, dill pickles, garlic powder, pickle juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, paprika, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Stir until well blended, then set aside.
Prepare the Patties: In a large bowl, add ground beef, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Mix gently until combined. Divide the mixture into 4 equal balls, each about ¼ pound, and set aside.
Prep the Bacon and Buns: Halve the bacon slices for a perfect fit in your burger. Butter both sides of the hamburger buns generously to ensure a crispy finish.
Cook the Bacon: Preheat your Blackstone or flat top to medium-high heat. Add the bacon slices and cook to your desired crispness, about 3-4 minutes. Move the bacon off to the side, keeping the grease handy for cooking the burgers.
Sizzle the Patties: Place the burger balls on the hot flat top and press down firmly with a spatula to flatten them to about ¼ inch thick. Let them cook for about 40 seconds to develop a beautiful crust.
Add Cheese and Buns: Flip the patties and immediately place a slice of cheese on each. Then, place the buttered buns, cut side down, on the flat top. Close the lid and let everything cook for approximately 2 minutes.
Serve with Style: Open the lid and remove the perfectly cooked burgers and toasted buns to a plate.
Assemble and Enjoy: Take one toasted bun and layer on your burger patty. Top it with two slices of crispy bacon, a few burger pickles, and a generous dollop of your homemade sauce. If you like, sprinkle some thinly sliced onions on top for extra crunch. Serve immediately and enjoy every delicious bite!
Optional: Add some fresh arugula for a peppery twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Blackstone Smash Burger Variations
Feel free to mix and match flavors to create your perfect burger masterpiece!
Turkey Alternative: Swap ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner take. Just remember to keep an eye on the cooking time!
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños to the beef for a fiery flavor blast. They’ll complement the juicy burger beautifully!
Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheese types like pepper jack, gouda, or even blue cheese for a unique twist. The possibilities are endless!
Vegan Delight: Use plant-based ground meat and vegan cheese to whip up a delicious, meat-free version that everyone will love.
Bacon Upgrade: Try maple-glazed bacon for a sweet and savory combination that takes the burger experience to a whole new level.
Grilled Veggies: Add some grilled bell peppers and mushrooms as toppings for an earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with beef or turkey.
Herbed Ranch Sauce: Replace the sauce with a herb-infused ranch dressing for a creamy, zesty alternative that’s sure to please.
BBQ Bliss: Drizzle some smoky BBQ sauce on the burger before adding toppings for a sweet and tangy burst of flavor that will have everyone coming back for more!
Make Ahead Options
These Blackstone smash burgers are fantastic for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can prepare the burger sauce by mixing all the ingredients and storing it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The ground beef patties can be shaped into balls and refrigerated for up to 24 hours; just be sure to keep them covered to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply cook the bacon and patties as directed, assemble your burgers, and your family will be delighted with the quick and satisfying meal. By prepping in advance, you’ll have restaurant-quality burgers at home without the hassle!
How to Store and Freeze Smash Burger
Fridge: Store leftover burgers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure they’ve cooled completely before sealing to preserve texture and flavor.
Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap cooked patties individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag, keeping them fresh for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in a skillet on medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until heated through. Enjoy your Blackstone smash burger recipe even days later!
What to Serve with Blackstone Smash Burger?
Elevate your burger night with delicious sides that complement every bite of juicy perfection.
- Crispy French Fries: The classic pairing! Golden, crunchy fries add a satisfying texture that balances the richness of the burgers. Dip them in ketchup for an extra flavor boost.
- Coleslaw: This creamy, tangy side brightens up your meal with refreshing crunch. The coolness of coleslaw contrasts beautifully with the warm, savory burgers on your plate.
- Grilled Vegetables: Colorful, charred veggies like bell peppers and zucchini add a healthy, smoky touch to your meal. They’re perfect for balancing the meaty flavors of the smash burger.
- Potato Salad: Creamy and slightly tangy, a classic potato salad enhances the hearty experience while adding a delightful creaminess to each mouthful.
- Onion Rings: Crunchy and sweet, they provide the same satisfying savory hit as the burger, inviting you to indulge in a symphony of flavors. Dip them in your special sauce for an extra zing!
- Pickle Chips: Tangy and crunchy, these little gems not only add a burst of flavor but also serve as a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of your indulgent burger.
- Craft Beer: A cold, hoppy craft beer contrasts the burger’s flavors, making every bite even more exceptional. The carbonation cleanses your palate, allowing you to fully enjoy each decadent flavor.
- Chocolate Milkshake: For a sweet finish, a thick milkshake adds a delightful balance of flavors to your savory meal. It’s a nostalgic treat that pairs perfectly with the smash burger experience.
With these delicious pairings, you’re guaranteed a memorable meal that will keep everyone coming back for seconds!
Expert Tips for the Best Smash Burger
Use Quality Beef: Choose 80/20 ground beef for juicy patties. Leaner cuts can lead to dry burgers, so enjoy that fat!
Don’t Overmix: When forming the patties, mix just until combined. Overworking the meat can create dense burgers instead of tender ones.
Keep it Hot: Preheat your Blackstone or flat top until sizzling! Cooking at the right temperature guarantees a beautiful, caramelized crust.
Smash Effectively: Press down firmly but gently on the burger balls to achieve that perfect smash. It’s key for maximizing flavor and texture!
Customize Wisely: Tailor toppings to your taste—crisp lettuce, tomatoes, or even jalapeños! Just avoid overloading to keep it manageable.
With these tips, your Blackstone smash burger recipe will be a guaranteed hit every time!
Blackstone Smash Burger Recipe FAQs
What kind of beef should I use for the smash burgers?
Absolutely! I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the ideal balance of juiciness and flavor. The higher fat content ensures that your patties remain moist and tender while developing that delicious crust when smashed on the flat top.
How can I store leftover smash burgers?
To store your leftover burgers, simply place them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure the burgers have cooled completely before sealing to preserve the texture.
Can I freeze cooked smash burger patties?
Very! For freezing, wrap each cooked smash burger patty individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This way, they can stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
What should I do if my burger patties are sticking to the grill?
If your patties are sticking, it might be due to insufficient grease or heat. Make sure you use enough bacon grease left on the flat top for cooking. If they’re still sticking, you could also try using a non-stick spray or gently lifting the edges with a spatula before flipping. Also, ensure your cooking surface is preheated properly!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Great question! If you have dietary restrictions, you can modify this recipe by using gluten-free buns or substituting the bacon with turkey bacon for a lighter option. For those with dairy allergies, you might opt for a dairy-free cheese alternative. Always check ingredient labels for allergies, especially with condiments like mayo and ketchup.
How can I adjust the spice level of the sauce?
Absolutely! If you like a bit more heat, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture. You can also experiment with spicy pickles or jalapeños as toppings. Just taste and adjust according to your preferences for the perfect zing!
Ultimate Blackstone Smash Burger Recipe for Flavor Lovers
Equipment
- Blackstone griddle
Ingredients
For the Sauce
- ½ cup mayo A creamy base that adds richness and tanginess to your burger.
- ¼ cup ketchup A classic sweet and tangy addition that balances the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon dill pickles Finely chopped for that crunch and zest.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder A hint of garlic to elevate the overall flavor profile.
- ½ teaspoon pickle juice Adds extra tanginess.
- ½ teaspoon soy sauce Deepens the umami flavor.
- ½ teaspoon rice vinegar Brightens the sauce with acidity.
- ¼ teaspoon paprika A touch of smokiness.
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt Essential for bringing out other flavors.
- ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper Adds gentle heat and depth.
For the Burgers
- 1 pound ground beef, 80/20 The perfect fat ratio for juicy patties.
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt Seasoning the beef ensures flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper Enhances overall flavor.
To Assemble
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon Crispy bacon adds smokiness.
- 2-3 tablespoons butter For toasting the buns.
- 4 slices American cheese Melts beautifully over the patties.
- burger pickles For extra crunch.
- white onion Very thinly sliced, optional for extra flavor.
Instructions
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine mayo, ketchup, dill pickles, garlic powder, pickle juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, paprika, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Stir until well blended, then set aside.
- In a large bowl, add ground beef, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Mix gently until combined. Divide the mixture into 4 equal balls, each about ¼ pound, and set aside.
- Halve the bacon slices. Butter both sides of the hamburger buns generously.
- Preheat your Blackstone or flat top to medium-high heat. Add the bacon slices and cook to your desired crispness for about 3-4 minutes.
- Place the burger balls on the hot flat top and press down firmly with a spatula to flatten them to about ¼ inch thick. Cook for about 40 seconds.
- Flip the patties and place a slice of cheese on each. Then, place the buttered buns on the flat top. Close the lid and let cook for approximately 2 minutes.
- Open the lid and remove the cooked burgers and toasted buns to a plate.
- Layer on your burger patty onto a toasted bun, adding two slices of bacon, burger pickles, and a generous dollop of your sauce. Optionally, add thinly sliced onions and serve immediately.