Are you ready to elevate your burger game? Forget everything you thought you knew about burgers because this Smash Burger Blackstone recipe is about to become your new favorite weeknight meal. The Blackstone griddle delivers that incredible sear and crispy edges, while the smashed patty guarantees maximum juicy flavor. This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner, a casual weekend gathering, or even an impressive backyard barbecue. Get ready for a flavor explosion!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 4 burger buns
- 4 slices cheese (cheddar, American, or your favorite)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Your favorite burger toppings (lettuce, tomato, pickles, etc.)
For the special Blackstone sauce (optional but highly recommended):
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions:
Preparing the Blackstone Griddle:
- Preheat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat (around 350-400°F). A clean, well-seasoned griddle is key for best results.
- Once hot, lightly oil the griddle surface with butter or cooking spray.
Making the Smash Burgers:
- Divide the ground beef into four equal portions.
- Gently form each portion into a loose ball. Don't overwork the meat; a slightly irregular shape is fine.
- Place the beef balls onto the hot griddle.
- Immediately smash each ball with a spatula, pressing down firmly to create a thin, wide patty. Aim for about 1/4 inch thickness. This is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior and juicy interior.
- Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the patties are cooked to your desired doneness.
Cooking the Onions:
- While the burgers are cooking, add the sliced onions to a separate area of the griddle.
- Cook until softened and lightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
Assembling the Smash Burgers:
- Place a slice of cheese on top of each burger during the last minute of cooking, allowing it to melt.
- Toast the burger buns lightly on the griddle if desired.
- Spread the Blackstone sauce (if using) on the bottom bun.
- Layer the cooked burger patty, caramelized onions, and your favorite toppings on the bottom bun.
- Top with the other bun and serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Smash Burgers:
- Use high-quality ground beef: The flavor of your burger will depend heavily on the quality of the meat.
- Don't overwork the meat: Overworking the beef will result in tough burgers.
- Smash it hard: The more you smash the patties, the crispier they will be.
- Keep it clean: Regularly wipe down your Blackstone griddle to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the ground beef for a spicy kick.
- Gourmet cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack, Swiss, or Gruyère.
- Bacon lovers: Add crispy bacon to your burger for extra flavor and texture.
- Veggie burgers: Substitute the ground beef with your favorite veggie burger patties.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 500-600
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 30-40g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-40g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
Enjoy your delicious and easy-to-make smash burgers! They are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion. This recipe makes homemade cooking fun and satisfying; you'll be making these delicious dishes again and again. Remember, these quick dinner ideas are perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals. They’re truly among the best recipes you’ll find for easy, flavorful, and satisfying food recipes.