Smash Double Cheese Burger

There’s nothing quite like a Smash Double Cheese Burger—two thin, crispy-edged beef patties, seared to perfection, stacked with gooey melted cheese, and layered inside a soft, toasted bun. The combination of juicy beef, crispy edges, melted cheese, and the perfect burger sauce makes this a game-changer for any burger lover.

Smash burgers get their name from the unique cooking technique where ground beef is pressed firmly onto a hot griddle or skillet, creating a beautifully crispy crust while locking in all the juices. Unlike traditional thick burgers, smash burgers cook quickly, giving you that perfect balance of crispiness and tenderness in each bite.

The double cheese element takes things to the next level. By stacking two ultra-thin patties, you maximize the crispy texture while keeping the inside juicy. Paired with American cheese, a lightly toasted brioche bun, and a signature sauce, this burger rivals anything from a top-tier burger joint. Ready to make your own smash burger at home? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Smash Double Cheese Burger

This isn’t just another cheeseburger—it’s the ultimate smash-style burger, packed with flavor, texture, and just the right amount of indulgence.

First, the thin, crispy patties create an irresistible contrast between the deeply seared crust and the juicy interior. The high-heat cooking method used in smash burgers ensures every bite is loaded with rich, beefy goodness. If you love burgers with an intense, caramelized flavor, this recipe is a must-try.

Then there’s the cheese factor—melty, creamy, and perfectly layered. American cheese is the classic choice because of its superior meltability, creating that signature cheesy pull. Each layer of beef is covered in cheese, ensuring every bite is loaded with that gooey, indulgent goodness.

Finally, it’s all about the perfect sauce and bun combo. A good burger sauce brings together creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors, enhancing the beef and cheese. Paired with a buttery, toasted brioche bun, this burger becomes a restaurant-quality masterpiece that you can easily make in your own kitchen.

Preparation Time and Yield

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 2 double cheeseburgers

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 750 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 45g
• Fat: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 7g

Ingredients for Smash Double Cheese Burger

For the Burger Patties:

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

For the Cheese & Bun:

• 4 slices American cheese (or cheddar for a sharper taste)
• 2 brioche burger buns (or potato buns)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for toasting buns)

For the Special Burger Sauce:

• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 teaspoon mustard
• 1 teaspoon pickle relish (or finely chopped pickles)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)

For the Toppings:

• 4 slices dill pickles
• 2 leaves iceberg lettuce (optional)
• 2 slices tomato (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Smash Double Cheese Burger

Step 1: Make the Special Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle relish, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined.
2. Cover and refrigerate while preparing the burgers.

Step 2: Shape the Burger Patties

1. Divide the ground beef into four equal portions (about 4 oz each).
2. Roll each portion into a loose ball—don’t pack them too tightly, as this helps create a better smash burger texture.
3. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on top.

Step 3: Toast the Buns

1. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Spread butter on the cut sides of the brioche buns and toast them for about 1-2 minutes, until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Smash and Cook the Burgers

1. Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over high heat until smoking hot.
2. Place one beef ball onto the hot surface and immediately press down firmly with a spatula or burger press. Flatten it until it’s about ¼-inch thick. Repeat with the other patties.
3. Let the patties cook undisturbed for 1-2 minutes until the edges are crispy and caramelized.
4. Flip the patties and immediately place a slice of cheese on top of each one. Cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute until the cheese melts.

Step 5: Assemble the Burgers

1. Spread a generous layer of special sauce on the bottom half of each bun.
2. Place one cheesy patty on the bun, followed by a second cheesy patty.
3. Add pickles, lettuce, and tomato if using.
4. Spread a little extra sauce on the top bun and place it over the stack.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

1. Serve hot with crispy fries, onion rings, or a side of coleslaw.
2. Take a big bite and enjoy the perfect Smash Double Cheese Burger experience!

Ingredient Background

A Smash Double Cheese Burger is all about high-quality ingredients, each contributing to its irresistible flavor and texture.

Ground Beef (80/20 Blend)

The key to a juicy burger is 80/20 ground beef, meaning it contains 80% lean meat and 20% fat. The fat ensures the burger remains flavorful, tender, and juicy while developing that signature crispy crust when smashed onto the griddle. Avoid leaner beef (like 90/10) since it can turn out dry.

American Cheese

For the perfect melt, American cheese is the best choice. It has a creamy texture that melts evenly over the patty, creating that classic gooey layer. If you prefer a stronger flavor, cheddar, pepper jack, or Swiss cheese are great alternatives, though they don’t melt as smoothly.

Brioche Buns

Brioche buns are light, buttery, and slightly sweet, complementing the richness of the burger. They’re also soft enough to absorb the juices without becoming soggy. If you prefer a sturdier bun, potato rolls or sesame seed buns work well.

The Special Sauce

A great burger needs a great sauce! This sauce combines mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and pickle relish to give it a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet taste. The addition of smoked paprika and Worcestershire sauce adds depth, making it even more flavorful.

Technique Tips for the Perfect Smash Double Cheese Burger

Mastering the smash burger technique is crucial for achieving that crispy, juicy, and flavorful result. Here are some expert tips to make your burger stand out:

1. Smash Immediately for the Best Crust

The moment your beef hits the hot griddle or cast-iron skillet, press it down right away with a firm, even pressure. This helps create maximum surface contact, which leads to that crispy, caramelized crust known as the Maillard reaction.

2. Use the Right Spatula

A sturdy, flat metal spatula works best for smashing. If it’s too thin or flexible, it won’t press the meat firmly enough. If needed, place a piece of parchment paper between the spatula and beef to prevent sticking.

3. Keep the Patties Thin

Smash burgers should be ¼-inch thick or less. This ensures quick cooking, a crispy exterior, and a juicy interior. Since they cook in under 2 minutes per side, they don’t dry out like thicker burgers.

4. Don’t Move the Patties While Cooking

Once you smash the burger, leave it alone for at least 1-2 minutes. This allows the crust to form properly. Only flip it once and don’t press it down again after flipping—this keeps the juices locked in.

5. Double the Cheese for the Ultimate Experience

Each patty should be topped with one slice of cheese, making the double stack extra cheesy. For an even melt, cover the burgers with a heatproof lid for 15-20 seconds after adding the cheese.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

1. Loaded Smash Burger

For an over-the-top version, add crispy beef bacon, caramelized onions, and jalapeños. The crispy bacon adds smokiness, while the onions bring a touch of sweetness.

2. Lettuce-Wrapped Smash Burger (Low-Carb Option)

Skip the bun and wrap the burger in large lettuce leaves for a low-carb, keto-friendly version. This keeps all the flavor without the extra carbs!

3. Gourmet Truffle Smash Burger

For a fancy twist, drizzle truffle aioli over the patties and use gruyere cheese instead of American cheese. Serve with a side of garlic parmesan fries for a restaurant-style upgrade.

Freezing and Storing Smash Double Cheese Burgers

Short-Term Storage (1-2 Days)

• If you have leftover cooked patties, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheat on a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side to revive the crispy edges.

Freezing the Patties (Up to 3 Months)

1. Shape the ground beef into loose balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Freeze them uncooked for about 1 hour, then transfer to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months.
3. Cook from frozen—no need to thaw! Just smash them directly onto the hot griddle.

Avoid Freezing Assembled Burgers

While the patties freeze well, buns and sauce do not. Assemble the burgers fresh for the best taste and texture.

Healthier Twist Ideas

1. Leaner Meat Option

For a lower-fat version, use 90/10 lean ground beef or even ground turkey. Turkey smash burgers are lighter but still juicy if cooked properly.

2. Whole Wheat Buns

Swap out brioche for whole wheat buns to add fiber and nutrients while keeping the burger satisfying.

3. Lighter Sauce Option

Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt in the sauce for a protein-packed, lower-calorie alternative.

Serving Suggestions for Events

1. Game Day Smash Burger Bar

Set up a DIY burger bar with toppings like grilled mushrooms, caramelized onions, jalapeños, avocado slices, and a variety of cheeses. Guests can customize their own double cheeseburger for the ultimate game-day feast!

2. Backyard BBQ Party

Pair the Smash Double Cheese Burgers with classic BBQ sides like grilled corn, coleslaw, loaded fries, and homemade lemonade. Serve everything on a wooden board for a fun, rustic vibe.

3. Late-Night Comfort Food

Sometimes, nothing hits the spot like a cheesy, crispy smash burger after a long day. Serve with garlic fries and a thick milkshake for the ultimate late-night indulgence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make smash burgers without a griddle or cast-iron pan?

Yes! A stainless steel pan works well, but avoid non-stick pans—they don’t get hot enough for a proper sear.

2. Can I cook smash burgers on a grill?

Smash burgers work best on a flat surface, but you can use a cast-iron griddle placed over your grill for great results.

3. Why is my burger sticking to the spatula?

If your meat sticks, use parchment paper between the spatula and the patty when smashing. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

4. Can I make a single-patty version?

Absolutely! Just use one patty instead of two for a lighter meal.

5. How do I get a super crispy edge?

Use a hot griddle (400-450°F) and smash quickly for the best crust. The higher the heat, the crispier the edges!

Conclusion

The Smash Double Cheese Burger is the ultimate burger experience—crispy-edged, juicy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a backyard BBQ, or just because you crave a top-tier burger, this recipe delivers every time.

So grab your ingredients, fire up the griddle, and get ready to enjoy one of the best burgers you’ve ever had. Happy cooking!

Print