Donegal Dexter Smash burgers are a very popular burger known for their thin, crispy-edged patties with a juicy interior. The key to a perfect smash burger lies in the technique of “smashing” the beef patty onto a hot surface, which creates a beautiful crust due to the Maillard reaction.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef: 80/20 blend (80% lean meat, 20% fat) is ideal for juiciness and flavor.
- Salt and pepper: For seasoning.
- Buns: Soft, preferably buttered and toasted.
- Cheese: Cheddar cheese melts perfectly, but you can use your favorite kind.
- Toppings: Pickles, onions, lettuce, tomato, ketchup, mustard, etc.
Equipment:
- Griddle or cast iron skillet: These hold heat well and ensure a good sear.
- Spatula: A sturdy, wide spatula or a smash burger press for smashing the burgers.
- Parchment paper: Optional, to place between the spatula and burger to prevent sticking.
Steps to Make Smash Burgers:
- Preheat Your Cooking Surface: Place your griddle or cast iron skillet over medium-high to high heat. Let it get very hot. You want the surface to be around 400-450°F (200-230°C).
- Prepare the Beef: Form the ground beef into loosely packed balls, about 2-3 ounces each (approximately the size of a golf ball). Don’t overwork the meat, as this can make the burgers dense.
- Smash the Burger:
- Place a beef ball onto the hot griddle or skillet.
- Using your spatula, press down firmly on the meat to flatten it out into a thin patty, about 1/4-inch thick. Hold the pressure for about 10 seconds to ensure good contact with the hot surface.
- Season the top of the patty with salt and pepper right after smashing.
- Cook the Burger:
- Let the patty cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes. This allows a deep, caramelized crust to form.
- Flip the burger once the edges are browned and crispy.
- Immediately place a slice of cheese on top (if using). Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the burger is cooked through.
- Assemble the Burger:
- While the second side of the burger is cooking, toast your buns on the griddle or skillet if desired.
- Place the cooked patty on the bottom bun, add your desired toppings, and finish with the top bun.
- Serve Immediately: Smash burgers are best enjoyed hot off the griddle, so serve them right away for the best texture and flavor.
Tips for Perfect Smash Burgers:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: This can lower the temperature and prevent proper searing.
- Use a heavy spatula: A metal spatula with a sharp edge works best for getting under the burger to flip it without losing the crust.
- Minimal toppings: Smash burgers are all about the crispy, beefy flavor, so keep toppings simple to let the patty shine.
Smash burgers are a delicious, quick, and satisfying way to enjoy a burger with maximum flavor and texture.